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MEMOIRS 



OP 



ANDREW JACKSON 



COMPILED 



BY A CITIZEN OF MASSACHUSETTS 







I 









MEMOIRS 



or 



'-:o:*2W :i3zscx. 



L»TB 



HAJOl QEKE1AL am, CX>MlfA)fDEI l\ CHIEF 



OF Till 



N«>1 ntERH l)IVlsio\ 



OF 



the army or Tin: dotted BTA1 



BV A CmZEN OP HAS3AI BUBE1 



PHILADELPHIA 
1899. 






L' " 



ESTATE OF 
THOMAS EWING II! 

OCTOlBER 23, 1947 ^* ' 
TOE LIBRAHY OF CGtfGRESi /5 



DISTRICT OF MASSACHUSETTS, to Wtt 

District Clerk's Office. 

Be it remembered, That on the twenty-seventh day of March, A. 
D. 1828, in the fiftj Bocond year oft In ■ independence of the United State* 
of America, Ch.vrles Ewer, of the said ilisirict, hai deposited in 
this office the title of a book, the right whereof lie claims as propri- 
etor in the words following-, to icit : 

t; Memoirs of Andrew Jackson, late Major-General and Commander 
in Chief of the Southern Division of the Army of the United Status 
Compiled by a Citizen of Massachusetts." 

In conformity to the act of the Congress of tiie United States, enti- 
tled, " An Act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the 
"••pies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of 
such copies during the times therein rxn I ," and also to an act, 

entitled, "An Act supplementary to an act, entitled, An Acl for the 
encouragement of learning, by s< < urhv fliB copies of maps, charts, 
and bonks, to the authors and proprietors of such copies during tho 
times therein mentioned ; and extending the benefits thereof to the arts 
of designing, engraving, and etching historical and other prini 

J\<». \V. DAVIS. 
Clerk of the District of .Masaachuscttg 






PRINTED BV T. K. AM» J*< O. .001X1X8. . V/ 



/ ?*0 



PREFACE. 



u 



It is not the intention of the compiler of 
ihe following .A!, moirs to present his readers 
with a prolix preface, because it constitutes 
that portion of a book, which is seldom hon- 
oured with a reading. 

When high party feelings were fully devel- 
oped, in relation to a presidential candidate, 
the engines of abuse*, brought into operation 
on the one hand, and, on the other, the fulsome 
adulation exhibited towards ths distinguish 

(riot) whose life is here delineated, induced 
the compiler to undertake an investigation of 
the subject, in order to bring to light a true 
statement of facts. 

With this object constantly in view, there has 

been a careful examination cf the official doc 
1 • 






6 PREFACE. 

uments, which relate to his public acts. His 
talents as a military commander, as a civilian, 
and, lastly, his moral character, are open to the 
inspection of all. 

When the community entertain different 
views of the conduct or motives of an indi- 
vidual, who has acted in a highly responsible 
capacity, it is exceedingly difficult to concen- 
trate opinion, by presenting a series of truths. 
Prejudice operates with peculiar force on the 
minds of one class, while the other, however 
well convinced of their error, are unwilling to 
Be thought inconsistent, 'and, therefore, never 
acknowledge the falsity of the course of rea 
soning which they have once adopted. 

Although tins compilation has been attended 
with considerable anxiety, in reducing the ma- 
terials to an orderly arrangement, a hope is 
indulged that the reader will admit, from a enn- 
did examination of the whole, that the intention 
has not been to make the work subservient to 



PREPACK, 



party purposes : on the contrary, it is intended 
to be a plain record of events in the life of an 
illustrious American citizen. 

The compiler of these Memoirs makes 
no claim to novelty or originality, He liop 
notwithstanding, that they will not be found 
uninteresting. It has been his aim to be 
strictly impartial. The materials that compose 
Ins work have accordingly been derived alike 
from the enemies and friends of the hero, 
whose public and private character be lias 

endeavoured faithfully to delineal 

Unaccustomed to eulogy, and unacquainted 
with the chicanery of political life, the compil r 

submits the result of his inquiries to the impar- 
tial tribunal of the public. 

s. 

Boston, March 15, 1828. 



CONTKNTS. 



C\\ WTY.R I. 



1 1 - birth, pi: ■ • ■ ! 

in the '• ' I 

treatment ai 

II rg — Coiillll 

the* Western \ -I I 

• 

r in the I ip- 

pointed a ju - I» Lion of 

T rs to tlio 

pn ' in try. — His descent 

. . . j>. 1 '.. 

en tPTER II. 

Ind '! 

•in his in' — I 'ivil * 

I ' » :ilnl I L Fort 

Nl 1 1 » 1 1 » -i - ' I the I 

unites with the ;irmv, and • ' — 

dies in hif camp. — I the to 
• imbod ' ; Se< ■ • 'iii n junction with the 
— Detaches < I 
*tn- ( Soon.— I raJluah ■ I> 

(II UT1 II III. 
I vours to unite with the | 

I shmont ■>!' Fort Strother.— 

Learna j Marches to bm 

•••: to return to 
hi* ancam r want of supplies — An 

CSSltents W his army. — Militia and voltli — 






10 CONTENTS. 



Address to the officers. — Is compelled to abandon Fort 
Stfother. — Hillabee clans sue for peace. — Letter from 
the Rev. Mr. Blackburn. — Answer. — The volunteers 
claim to be discharged. — Mutiny. — Address to them. — 
General Cocke arrives with part of his division. — Gene- 
ral Coffee's brigade petitions for a discharge. — General 
Jackson's answer. — They abandon the service, and go 
home p. 50. 



CHAPTER IV. 

Discontents of the militia. — Governor Blount recom- 
mends an abandonment of the service. — Jackson's reply 
to his letter. — The governor takes measures for bringing 
out a sufficient force. — Conduct of General Roberts. — 
His brigade retires from service. — Lieutenant Kearley. — 
Arrival of additional forces. — Arrest of officers. — Expe- 
dition against the Indians. — His motives. — Battle of 
Emuckfaw.— General Coffee proceeds to destroy the 
enemy's fortifications. — Second battle of Emuckfaw. — 
Troops commence their return march. — Ambuscade 
formed by the Indians. — Battle of Enotichopco. . p. 82. 



CHAPTER V. 

The volunteers are discharged. — New troops arrive.— 
Execution of a soldier, and the effect produced.— Want 
of supplies.— Mutiny with the East Tennessee brigade.— 
General Jackson marches against the Indians.— Battle 
of Tohopeka.— Returns to Fort Williams.— Expedition 
to Hoithiewalee ; its failure, and the causes.— Forms a 
junction with the Georgia troops:, and proceeds to the 
Hickory Ground.— Indians sue for peace.— Weatherford 
surrenders himself— Arrival of General Pinckney at 
head-quarters. — Tennessee troops are ordered to be 

arched home, and discharged from service . p. 110 

CHAPTER VI. 

Jackson is appointed a major-general in the service of 
the United States.— Is directed to open a negotiation 
with the Indians.— Speech of the Big Warrior, a chiet 
of the nation. — Concludes a treaty with the Creek In 



CONTENTS. 11 

dians. — Ills views against Pensacola and Florida. — Gen- 
eral Armstrong's letter. — The Spanish governor is call- 
ed on tor an explanation of his conduct. — His answer, and 
General Jackson's reply. — The adjutant-general is de- 
spatched to Tennessee to raise vcluntcers. — Jpckson sets 
out for Mobile. — Orders the Tennessee troops to ad- 
vance to his assistance p. 14 J. 



CHAPTER VII. 

Colonel Nicholls arrives at Pensacola, and issues a proc- 
lamation to the southern inhabitants. — Attack on Fort 
Bowyer, and loss of the Flermes. — Jackson determines to 
reduce Pensacola. — Demands of the vorernor an explana 
tion of his conduct; his answer- Filters and takes pos 
session of Pensacola. — Conduct and perfidy of the got 
emor. — Destruction, by the British, oi Barrancas Fort. — 
Our troops return to Mobile. — Expedition against the 
Indians. — General Winchester arrives, and Jackson pro- 
ceeds U> take command of New Orleans. . . . p. 171. 



CHAPTER VIII. 
Jackson's correspondence with iho jrovcrnor of Louis- 
iana. — His address to the citizens. — Militia from Ten« 
neseeo and Kentucky advance j and general plans adopt- 
ed for defence. — Plan for filling delinquencies in tho 
army — British shipping arrive ( ,n the coast. — Loss of 
the Sea Horse. — Battle on the lake, and loss of the fjun- 
boats — Jackson reviews the militia. — His address to 
them. — Detention of his flag. — Anecdote. — Bxpre 
pent to Generals Coffee and Carroll. — Declaration of 
martial law at New Orleans. — The British effect a land- 
ing, and Jackson prepares to meet them. ... p. 197. 



CHAPTER IX. 

Ctrncral Jackson concentrates his forces, and marches 
to fight the enemy. — Alarms of the citv. — Anecdote. — 
Mode of attack, and battle of the "2?,d of December.— 
British re-en fbrcements arrive during the action. — Ar- 
rival of General Carroll's division.— Our army retires 
from the field. — Effects of this battle. — Jackson establish- 



12 CONTENTS. 

es a line of defence. — General Morgan is ordered on the 
right bank of the Mississippi. — Destruction and loss of 
the Caroline schooner. — Battle of the 28th December. — 
Conduct of the legislature of Louisiana ; their delibera- 
tions suspended. — Scarcity of amis in the American 
camp. — Colonel Hinds p. 232 



CHAPTER X. 

Attack of the 1st of January. — General Jackson's line 
of defence. — Kentucky troops arrive at head-quarters. — 
British army re-enforced ; their preparations for attack. 
— Battle of the 8th of January, and -repulse of the ene- 
my. — American redoubt carried, and retakei.. — Colonel 
Thorntun proceeds against General Morgan's line, and 
takes possession of it. — Letter of Captain Wilkinson. — ■ 
British watchword. — Generous conduct of the American 
soldiers. — Morgan's line regained. — General Lambert 
requests a suspension of hostilities. — Armistice conclud- 
ed. — Execution of an American soldier by the British. 

p. 270. 

CHAPTER XL 

Bombardment of Fort St. Philip. — British army retiro 
to their shipping. — General Jackson, with his troops, re- 
turns to New Orleans. — Day of thanksgiving. — Reduc- 
tion of Fort Bowyer. — Legislature of Louisiana re-com- 
mence their session. — Discontents fomented among the 
American troops. — Arrest of Louaillier ; of Judge Hall. 
— Peace announced. — General Jackson is prosecuted for 
contempt of court ; his appearance in court. — Speech at 
the coffee-house. — His own opinion of martial law. — 
Troops are discharged, and the general returns to Nash- 
ville. — Reduction of the army. — Jackson's commission as 
general annulled. — Treaty with Spain. — He is appointed 
governor of the Floridas. — Transactions there. — His re- 
signation. — He is appointed minister to Mexico ; declines 
tlie mission ; his reasons ; is elected a senator of the 
United States ; resigns the omce. — His person and char- 
actar. — Anecdotes. — Conclusion. ... p. 2L>3. 



LIFE 



OF 

ANDREW JACKSON. 



CHAPTER I. 

!J '• ■'>. parent ' l.—Enga 

i /: '""* 

made a prisoner. — Tltcir treatment and -Crnnm 

<7, „•_//> rem H ' ■ • - ' 

Tennessee Con 
lor in til* I 'iii!. 'I g ( Re- 

i n Judgt of t : -' ■-' Courts. — IM- 
' v u ,— Temlera tin 
/■ nl.— Ordered to tiir lower country*— Hi 'and 

■an, and discharge of tiie troops. 

\«. ;.i.i u .!\i KSOB "■ - born on the 15th day ot 
March, 1767. Hia father, (Andrew,) the young- 
est son of hia family, emigrated to America from 
Ireland during the year 1765, bringing with him 
two son.--, 1 1 1 1 lt 1 1 and Robert, bq|h very young. 
Landing at Charleston, in South Carolina, he af- 
terwards pur I a tract of land, in what was 
then called the Waxsaw settlement, about forty-nve 
miles above Camden ; at which place the subject of 
this history was born. Shortly after his birth, his 
father died, leaving three sons to be provided for 
by their mother. She appears to have been an 
exemplary woman, ant. to have executed the ar- 
duous duties which had devolved on her, with ^rcat 
2 



14 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

faithfulness and success. To the lessons she in- 
culcated on the youthful minds of her sons, was 
no doubt, owing, in a great measure, that fixed op- 
position to British oppression, which afterwards so 
much distinguished them. Often would she spend 
the winter's evenings in recounting to them the 
sufferings of their grandfather at the siege of Car- 
rickfergus, and the oppression exercised by the no- 
bility of Ireland over the labouring poor ; impres- 
sing it upon them, as a first duty, to expend their 
lives, if it should become necessary, in defending 
and supporting the rights of man. 

Inheriting but a small patrimony from their fa- 
ther, it was impossible that all the sons could receive 
an expensive education. The two eldest were, 
therefore, only taught the rudiments of their mother 
tongue, at a common country school. But An- 
drew, being intended by his mother for the minis- 
try, was sent to a flourishing academy at the Wax- 
saw meeting-house, superintended bv Mr. Hum- 
phries. Here he was placed on the study of the 
dead languages, and continued until the revolu- 
tionary war, extending its ravages into that section 
of South Carolina where he then was, rendered 
it necessary that every one should betake himself 
to the American standard, seek protection with the 
enemy, or flee his country. It was not an alter- 
native that' admitted of tedious deliberation. The 
natural ardour of his temper, deriving encourage- 
ment from the recommendations of his mother, 
whose feelings were excited by those sentiment? in 
favour of liberty, with which, by her conversation, 
his mind had been early imbued, quickly deter 
mined him in the course to be pursued ; and, at the 
tender age of fourteen, accompanied by his brother 






LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 15 

Robert, he hastened to the American camp, and 
engaged actively in the service of his country. 
His eldest brother, who had previously joined the 
army, had lost his life at the battle of Stono, from 
the excessive heat of the weather, and the fatigues 
of the day. 

Both Andrew and Robert were, at this period, 
pretty well acquainted with the manual exercise, 
and had some idea of the different evolutions of 
the field, having been indulged by their mother in 
attending the drill and general musters of the 
neighbourhood. 

The Americana being unequal, as well from the 
inferiority of their numbers, as their discipline, to 
engage the British army in battle, had retired be- 
it into the interior of North Carolina; but, 
when they learned that Lord Cornwallis had cross- 
ed the Yadkin, they returned in small detach- 
i,i. nls to their native state. On their arrival, they 
found Lord Rawdon in possession of Camden, and 
the whole country around in a state of desolation. 
The British commander I advised of the re- 

turn of the settlers of Waxsaw, Major Cofiin \ 
immediately despatched thither, with a corps of 
lii_ r bt (!r;"jfOons, a company of infantry, and a con- 
fable number of tories, for their capture and 
destruction. Hearing of their approach, the set- 
tlers, without delay, appointed the Waxsaw meet- 
ing-hou a place of rendc , that they m 

the better collect their scattered strength, and con- 
cert some system of operations. About forty of 
them bad accordingly assembled at this point, when 
the enemy approached, keeping the tories, who were 
r jed in the common garb of the country, in front, 
whereby this little band of patriots was completely 



16 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

deceived, having taken them for Captain Nis- 
bet's company, in expectation of which they had 
been waiting. Eleven of them were taken prison 
ers ; the rest with difficulty fled, betaking them 
selves to the woods for concealment. Of these 
who thus escaped, though closely pursued, were 
Andrew Jackson and his brother, who, entering a 
secret bend in a creek, that was close at hand, 
obtained a momentary rnspite from danger, and 
avoided, for the night, the pursuit of the enemy. 
The next day, however, having gone to a neigh- 
bouring house, for the purpose of procuring some- 
thing to eat, they were broken in upon, and made 
prisoners, by Coffin's dragoons, and a party of to- 
rics who accompanied them. Those young men, 
with a view to security, had placed their horses in 
the wood, on the margin of a small creek, and post- 
ed, on the road which led by the house, a senti- 
nel, that they might have information of any ap- 
proach, and in time to be able to elude it. But 
the tories, who were well acquainted with the coun- 
try and the passes through the forest, had, unfortu- 
nately, passed the creek at the very point where 
the horses and baggage of our young soldiers were 
deposited, and taken possession of them. Having 
done this, they approached, cautiously, the house, 
and were almost at the door before they were dis- 
covered. To escape was impossible, and both 
were made prisoners. Being placed under guard, 
Andrew was ordered, in a very imperious tone, by a 
British officer, to clean his boots. This order he 
positively and peremptorily refused to obey ; aileg 
ing that he looked for such treatment as a pris- 
oner of war had a right to expect. Incensed at 
his refusal, the officer aimed a blow at his head 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON* 17 

with a drawn sword, which would, very probably 
have terminated his existence, had he not parried 
its effects by throwing up his left hand, on which 
he received a severe wound, the mark of which he 
bears to this hour. I lis brother, at the same time, 
for a similar offence, received a deep cut on the 
head, which subsequently occasioned his death. 
They were both now taken to jail, where, sepa • 
rated and confined, they were treated with marked 
Beverity, until a few days after the battle before 
Camden, when, in consequence of a partial ex- 
change, effected by the intercessions and exer- 
tions of their mother, and Captain Walker, of the 
militia, tiiey were both released from confinement. 
Robert; during his confinement in prison, had suf- 
fered greatly; the wound on his hoad, all this time, 
having m-ver been dressed, was followed by an in- 
flammation cf the brain, which, in. a few days after 
his liberation, brought him to the grave. To add 
to the afflictions of Andrew, his mother, worn 
down by grief, and her incessant exertions to pro 
vide clothing and other comforts for the suffering 
prisoners, who had been taken from her neigh- 
bourhood, expired in a few weeks after her son, 
near the lines of the enemy, in the vicinity of 
Charleston. Andrew, the last and only surviving 
child, confined to a bed of sickness, occasioned by 
the sufferings he had been compelled to undergo 
whilst a prisoner, and by getting wet, on his return 
from captivity, was thus left in the wide world, 
without a human being with whom he could claim 
a near relationship. The small pox, about the 
aame time, having made its appearance upon him, 
had well nigh terminated his sorrows and his ex 
istence. 



IS LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

Having at length recovered from his compli- 
cated afflictions, he entered upon the enjoyment 
of his estate, which, although small, would have 
been sufficient, under prudent management, to have 
completed his education, on the liberal scale which 
his mother had designed. Unfortunately, however, 
he, like too many young men, sacrificing future 
prospects to present gratification, expended it with 
rather too profuse a hand. Foreseeing that he 
should be finally obliged to rely on his own ex- 
ertions, for support and success in life, he again 
betook himself to his studies with increased in- 
dustry. He recommenced under Mr. M'Culloch, 
in that part of Carolina which was then called the 
New Acquisition, near Hill's iron works. Here 
he revised the languages, devoting a portion of his 
time to a desultory course of studies. . •£* 

His education being now completed, so far as 
his wasted patrimony, and the limited opportuni- 
ties then afforded in that section- of the country, 
would permit, at the age of eighteen, he turned his 
attention to acquiring a profession, and in preparing 
himself to enter on the busy scenes of li r e. The 
pulpit, for which he had been designed by his 
mother, was now abandoned for the bar ; and, in 
the winter of 1784, he repaired to Salisbury, in 
North Carolina, and commenced the study of ltw 
under Spruce M ; Cay, Esq., (afterwards one of the 
judges of that state,) and subsequently continued it 
under Colonel John Stokes. Having remained at 
Salisbury until the winter of 1786, he obtained a 
license from the judges to practise law, and con- 
tinued in the state until the spring of 1783. 

The western parts of the state of Tennessee 
were, about this time, often spoken of, as presenting 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 19 

flattering prospects to adventurers. He imme- 
diately determined to accompany Judge M-Xairy 
thither, who had been appointed, and was going 
out to hold the first supreme court that had ever 
sat in the state. Having reached the Holston, they 
ascertained it would be impossible to arrive at the 
time appointed for the session of the court; and 
therefore determined to remain in that section of 
country until fall. They reached Nashville in Oc- 
tober. It had not been Jackson a intention, certain- 
ly, to make Tennessee the place of his future r 
douce; his visit was merety experimental, ami bis 
Btay remained to be determined by the advanta 
that might be disclosed; but finding, soon after his 
arrival, that a considerablo opening wits offered for 
the success of a young attorney, be determined to 
remain, though the prospect before him was, cer- 
tainly, not of an encouraging cast. As in all newly 
Bettled countries must be the Cfl (, c was 

•ly formed, and united by but few of those ti is 
which have a tendency to enforce the performance 
ot' moral duly, and the ri:, r ht execution of justice. 
Ti,.' young men of the place, adventurers from dif- 
f rent - actions of the country, had become in 
to the merchants; there was but one lawyer in 
the country, and they had so contrived, as to retain 
him in their business ; the consequence was, that 
the merchants were entirely deprived of the mi 
of enforcing against those gentlemen the execu- 
tion of their contracts. En this si FthinersJack- 
son made bis appearance at Nashville, and while 
the creditor class looked to it with irreat satis- 
faction, the debtors were sorely displeased. Appli- 
cations were immediately made to him for his pro- 
f ional services, and on the morning after his 



20 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

arrival ho issued seventy writs. To those prodi- 
gal gentlemen, it was an alarming circumstance ; 
their former security was impaired ; but, that it 
might not wholly depart, they determined to force 
him, in some way or other, to leave the country ; 
and, to effect this, broils and quarrels with him 
were to be resorted to. This, however, was soon 
abandoned, satisfied by the first controversy in 
which they had involved him, that his decision and 
firmness were such as to leave no hope of effecting 
any thing through this channel. Disregarding the 
opposition raised to him, he continued, with care 
and industry, to press forward in his professional 
course, and his attention soon brought him forward, 
and introduced him to a profitable practice. Ho 
was subsequently appointed attorney-general for 
the district, in which capacity he continued to act 
for several years. 

Indian depredations being then frequent on the 
Cumberland, every man, of necessity, became a 
soldier Unassisted by the government, the set- 
tlers were forced to rely for security on their own 
bravery and exertions. Although young, no per • 
son was more distinguished than Andrew Jack- 
son, in defending the country against these preda- 
tory incursions of the savages, who continually 
harassed the frontiers, and not unfrequently ap- 
proached the heart of the settlements, which were 
thin, but not widely extended. He aided alike in 
garrisoning the forts, and in pursuing and chastis- 
ing the enemy. 

In the year 1796, having, by his patriotism, firm- 
ness, and talents, secured to himself a distinguished 
standing, he was chosen one of the members of the 
convention for establishing a constitution for the 



MFC OF GENERAL JACKSON*. 2J- 

state. His good conduct and zeal brought him 
more prominently to view; and, without proposing 
or soliciting, he was, in the same year, elected a 
member of the house of representatives, in con- 
gress, for the state of Tennessee. The following 
year, his reputation continuing to increase, he was 
chosen a senator of the United States' congress, 
and took his seat on the 22d day of November, 
1797. About the middle of April, business of an 
important and private nature imposed on him the 
necessity of asking leave of absence, and return- 
ing home. Leave was granted, and before the 
next session he resigned his seat. lie was but 
a little more than thirty years of age, and hence, 
scarcely eligible, by the constitution, at the time 
he was elected. The sedition law was introduced 
into the senate, by Mr. Lloyd, of Maryland, in 
June, and passed that body on the 4th of July fol- 
lowing ; hence the name of Jackson, owing to the 
leave of absence which had been granted him in 
April, does not appear on the journals. On the 
alien law, however, and the effort to repeal the 
Btamp act, lie was present, resting in the minority. 
The state of Tennessee, on its admission into 
the Union, comprising but one military division, 
aud General Conway, who commanded it, as major- 
general, dying about this time, Jackson, without 
being consulted on the subject, was, as the con- 
stitution of the state directs, chosen by the field 
officers to succeed him; which appointment he con- 
tinued to hold until May, 1814, when he was con- 
stituted a major-general in the United States' ser- 
vice. 

Becoming tired of political life, for the intrigues 
of which he declared himself unqualified, am) hav- 



22 LIFE OF GENEFvAL JACKSON 

ing for two years voted in the minority in congress, 
he resigned, after the first session, his seat in the 
senate. To this measure he was strono-lv in- 
duced, from a desire to make way for General 
Smith, who, he conjectured, would, in that capaci- 
ty, be able to render more important, services to the 
government than himself. His country, unwilling 
that his talents should remain inactive and unem- 
ployed, again demanded his services. Immediate- 
ly after his resignation, he was appointed one of 
the judges of the supreme court of the state. He 
advanced to the office with reluctance, and in a short 
time resigned, leaving it open for those, who, he 
believed, were better qualified than himself, to dis- 
charge its intricate and important duties. Unam- 
bitious of those distinctions and honours which 
young men are usually proud to possess ; finding, 
too, that his circumstances and condition in life 
were not such as to permit his time and attention 
to be devoted to public matters, he determined to 
yield them into others' hands, and to devote him- 
self to agricultural pursuits ; and accordingly set- 
tied himself on an excellent farm, ten miles from 
Nashville, on the Cumberland river ; where, for 
several years, he enjoyed all the comforts of do- 
mestic and social intercourse. Abstracted from 
the busy scenes of public life, pleased with retire- 
ment, surrounded by friends whom he loved, and 
who entertained for him the highest veneration 
and respect, and blessed with an amiable and affec- 
tionate consort, nothing seemed wanting to the com- 
pletion of that happiness which he so anxiously 
desired whilst in office. 

Great Britain, by multiplied outrages on our 
rights, as an independent and neutral nation, haa 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 23 

provoked from our government a declaration of war 
against her. This measure, though founded in 
abundant cause, had been long forborne, and ev- 
ery attempt at reconciliation made, without effect ; 
when, at length, it was resorted to, as the only al- 
ternative that could preserve the honour and dig- 
nity of the nation, General Jackson, ever devoted to 
the interests of his country, frcm the moment of 
the declaration, knew no wish so strong as that 
of entering into her service, against a power, 
which, independent of public considerations, he 
had many private reasons for disliking. In her, 
he could trace Bufferings and injuries received, 
and the efficient cause, why, in early life, he had 
been left forlorn and wretched, without a single 
relation in the world. His proud and indexible 
mind, 1; p, could not venture to solicit an ap- 

pointment in the army, which was about to be rais- 
ed. Jle accordingly remained wholly unknown, 
until, at tb< I of the militia, employed against 

the Creek Indians, his constant vigilance, and the 
splendour of his victories, apprized the general 
government of those great military talents which 
lie so eminently po- !, and conspicuously dis- 

played, when opportunities for exerting them were 
afforded. 

The acts of congress of the Cth of February, 
and July, 1812, a 1 the means of bringing in 

to view a display of those powers, which, being 
unknown, under other circumstances, unfortunate 
ly, might have slumbered in inaction. Under the 
authority of these acts, authorizing the president 
to accept the services of fifty thousand volunteers, 
he addressed the citizens of his division, and 
twenty-five hundred flocked to his standard. A 



24 LTFE OF GENERAL JACKSOW 

tender of them having been made, and the offer ac- 
cepted, in November he received orders to place 
himself at their head and to descend the Missis- 
sippi, for the defence of the lower country, which 
was then supposed to be in danger. On the 10th 
of December, those troops rendezvoused at Nash- 
ville, prepared to advance to the place of their des- 
tination; and, although the weather was then ex- 
cessively severe, and the ground covered with 
snow, no troops could have displayed greater firm- 
ness. The general was every where with them, in- 
spiring them with the ardour that animated his 
own bosom. 

Having procured supplies, and made the necessa- 
ry arrangements for an active campaign, they pro- 
ceeded, the 7th of January, on their journey ; and, 
descending the Ohio and Mississippi, through cold 
and ice, arrived, and halted at Natchez. Here 
Jackson had been instructed to remain, until he 
should receive further orders. Having chosen a 
healthy site for the encampment of his troops, 
about two miles from Washington, he devoted his 
time, with the utmost industry, to training and pre- 
paring them for active service. The clouds of 
war, however, in that quarter, having blown over, 
an order was received from the secretary of war, 
dated the 5th of January, directing him, on the re- 
ceipt thereof, to dismiss those under his command 
from service, and to take measures for delivering 
over every article of public property, in his pos 
session, to Brigadier-General Wilkinson. When 
this order reached his camp, there were one hun- 
dred and fifty on the sick report, fifty-six of whom 
were unable to raise their heads, and almost the 
whole of them destitute of the means of defrav- 



LITE OF GEM: HAL JACKSON. 25 

ing the expenses of their return. The consequence 
of a strict compliance with the secretary's or- 
der inevitably would have been, that many of the 
sick must have perished, whilst most of the others, 
from their destitute condition, would, of necessity, 
have been compelled to enlist in the regular army, 
under Genera] Wilkinson. Such alternatives were 
neither congenial with their general's wishes, nor 
such as they had expected, on adventuring with 
him in the service of their country; he had carried 
them from home, and, the fete of war and dise 
apart, it was his duty, ho believed, to bring them 
back. To have abandoned diem, therefore, at 
Buch a time, ami under soch circumstances, would 
have drawn on him the merited censure of the 
most deserving part of his fellow-citizens, and sen- 
sibly wounded his own generous feelings. Add to 
this, those young men who were confined by sick- 
ness, learning the nature of the order he had re- 
ceivod, implored him. with tears in their eyes, not 
to abandon them In bo great an extremity, remind- 
ing him, '.it the t^ame time, of his assurances, that 
he would be to them as a father, and of the im- 
plicit confidence they had placed in his word. This 
was an appeal, which it would have been difficult 
for the feelings of Jackson to have resisted, had it 
been without the support of other weighty consid- 
erations ; but, influenced by them all, he had no 
hesitation in coming to a determination. 

Having made known his resolution to the field- 
officers of his division, it met, apparently, their ap- 
probation ; but, after retiring from his presence, 
they assembled late at night, in secret caucus, and 
proceeded to recommend to him an abandonment 
of hifl purpose, and an immediate discharge of his 
3 



26 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

troops. Great as was the astonishment, which this 
measure excited in the general, it produced a still 
higher sentiment of indignation. In reply, he urg- 
ed the duplicity of their conduct, and reminded 
them, that, although, to those who possessed funds 
and health, such a course could produce no incon- 
venience, yet to the unfortunate soldier, who was 
alike destitute of both, no measure could be more 
calamitous. He concluded by telling them, that 
his resolution, not having been hastily concluded 
on, nor bottomed on light considerations, was un- 
alterably fixed ; and that immediate preparations 
must be made for carrying into execution the de- 
termination he had formed. 

He lost no time in making known to the sec- 
retary of war the resolution lie had adopted ; to 
disregard the order he had given, and to return his 
army to the place where he had received it. He 
painted in strong terms the evils which the course 
pursued by the government was calculated to pro- 
duce, and expressed the astonishment he felt, that 
it should have originated with the famous author 
of the "Newburg Letters," the once redoubted 
advocate of soldiers' rights. 

General Wilkinson, to whom the public proper- 
ty was directed to be delivered, learning the de- 
termination which had been taken by Jackson, to 
march his troops back, and to take with them so 
much of that property as should be necessary to 
their return, in a letter of solemn and mysterious 
import, admonished him of the consequences which 
were before him, and of the awful and dangerous 
responsibility he was taking on himself, by so bold 
a measure. General Jackson replied, that his con- 
duct, and the consequences to which it might lead. 






LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 27 

had been well considered, and that he was prepared 
to abide the result, whatever it might be. Wilkin- 
son had previously given orders to his officers to 
recruit from Jackson's army ; they were advised, 
however, on their first appearance, that those troops 
were already in the service of the United States, 
and that, thus situated, they should not be enlisted ; 
and that he would arrest and confine the first offi- 
cer who dared to enter his encampment with any 
such object in view. 

The quarter-master, having been ordered to 
furnish the necessary transportation for the con- 
veyance of the sick and the baggage to Tennes- 
see, immediately set about the performance of the 
task ; but, as the event proved, with not the least 
intention of executing it. Still, he continued to 
keep up the semblance of exertion ; and, the bet- 
ter to deceive, the very day before that which had 
been appointed for breaking up the encampment, 
and commencing the return march, eleven wagons 
arrived there by his order. The next morning, 
however, when every thing was about to be packed 
up, acting doubtless from orders, and intending to 
produce embarrassment, the quarter-master entered 
the encampment, and discharged the whole. lie 
was grossly mistaken in the man lie had to deal 
with, and had now played his tricks too far to be 
able to accomplish the object which he had, no 
doubt, been instructed to effect. Disrcjxardin'' 
their dismissal, so evidently designed to prevent 
his marching back his men, (iencral Jackson seiz- 
ed upon these wagons, yet within his lines, and com- 
pelled them to proceed to the transportation of his 
sick. It deserves to be recollected, that this quar- 
ter-master, so soon as he received directions for 



2^ .LIFE OF GE>KRAJ i KSO^. 

furnishing transportation, had despatched an ex- 
press to General Wilkinson ; and there can be but 
little doubt, that the course of duplicity he after- 
wards pursued, was a concerted plan between him 
and that general, to defeat the design of Jackson ; 
compel him to abandon the course he had adopted ; 
and, in this way, draw to the regular army many 
of the soldiers, who, from necessity, would be driv- 
en to enlist. In this attempt they were fortunately 
disappointed. Adhering to his original purpose, 
he successfully resisted every stratagem of Wilkin- 
son, and marched the whole of his division to the 
section of country whence they had been drawn, 
and dismissed them from service, as he had been 
instructed. 

To present an example that might buoy up the 
sinking spirits of his troops in the arduous march, 
he yielded up his horses to the sick, and, trudging 
on foot, encountered all the hardships that were 
met by the soldiers. It was at a time of the year, 
when the roads were extremely bad, and the 
swamps, lying in their passage, deep and full ; yet, 
under these circumstances, he placed before his 
troops an example of patience and hardship, that 
lulled to silence all complaints, and won to him, 
still stronger than before, the esteem and respect 
of every one. On arriving at Nashville, he com- 
municated to the president of the United States 
the course he had pursued, and the reasons that 
had induced it. If it had become necessary, he 
had sufficient grounds on which he could have jus- 
tified his conduct. Had he suffered General Wil- 
kinson to have accomplished what was clearly his 
intention, although it was an event which might, 
at the moment, haie benefited the service, by add- 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON". 29 

ing an increased strength to the army, yet the ex- 
ample would have been of so serious and excep- 
tionable a character, that injury would have been 
the final and unavoidable result. His conduct, ter 
rible as it first appeared, was in the end approved, 
and the expenses incurred directed to be paid by 
the government. 
3* 



30 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 



CHAPTER, II. 

Indian preparation for hostilities. — Tecnmseh arrives amongst (he 
southern tribes ; his intrigues. — Civil tears cftlie Creeks. — I > - 
struetion of, and butchery at Fort Afimms. — Expedition against 
the. Indians. — Jackson unites with the army, and enters the . h.- 
vnfs country. — Scarcity of supplies in his camp.— -Learns the 
savages are Unbodied. — Seeks to form a junction uith the East 
Tennessee division. — Detaclies General Coffee across tlie Coosa. 
—Battle of Tallushatchee. 

The volunteers, who had descended the river, 
having been discharged early in May, there was 
little expectation that they would again be called 
for. Tennessee was too remotely situated in the 
interior of the country to expect their services 
would be required for her defence, and hitherto 
the British had discovered no serious intention of 
waging operations against any part of Louisiana. 
Their repose, however, was not of long duration. 
The Creek Indians, inhabiting the country lying 
between the Chatahochee and Tombigbee, and ex- 
tending from the Tennessee River to the Florida 
line, had lately manifested strong symptoms of 
hostility towards the United States, from which 
they had received yearly pensions, and every as- 
sistance which the most liberal policy could bestow. 
This disposition was greatly strengthened, through 
means used by the northern Indians, who were 
then making preparations for a war against the 
United States, and who wished to engage the 
southern tribes in the same enterprise. 

An artful impostor had, about this time, sprung 
up amongst the Shawnees, who, by passing for a 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 7 . 31 

prophet, commissioned by the " Great Spirit 1 ' to 
communicate his mandates to his red children, had 
acquired, among his own and the neighbouring 
tribes, astonishing influence. Clothed, as they be- 
lieved him to be, with such high powers, they lis- 
tened to his extravagant doctrines, and in them fully 
confided. He succeeded in kindling a rage against 

O CO 

the Anglo-Americans, which soon atler burst forth 
m acts of destructive violence. His brother, Te- 
Climsehj who became so famous during the war, and 
who was killed subsequently, -it the battle of the 
Thames, was despatched to the southern tribes, to 
excite in them the same temper, To the Creek-, 
by far the most numerous and powerful, he directed 
his principal attention. Having entered their na- 
tion, some tune in the spring of I s - 12, he repaired 
to Tookaubatcha, where he had repeated confer- 
ences with the chiefs; hut, not meeting with the 
encouragement he expected, returned to the Ala- 
bama, which he had previously visited, and there 
commenced operation 

Finding there several leaders of great influence, 
who entered into hid views, he was enabled to carry 
on his schemes with greater si; . Deriving his 

powers from his brother, tin' Prophet, whose extra- 
ordinary commission and endowments were well 
understood by all the neighbouring tribes in the 
south, his authority was regarded with the highest 
veneration. He strongly interdicted all intercourse 
with the whites, and prevailed on the greater part 
of the Alabama Indians to throw aside the imple- 
ments and clothing which that intercourse had fur- 
nished, and return again to their savage state, from 
which he represented them as highly culpable for 
having suffered themselves to be estranged. ]n 



32 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

a word, no moans were left untried to excite them 
to the most deadly animosity and cruel war. To 
afford additional weight to his councils, this de- 
signing missionary gave assurances of aid and sup- 
port from Great Britain ; whose power and riches 
he represented as almost without limits, and quite 
sufficient for the subjugation of the United States. 
So considerable an influence did his intrigues and 
discourses obtain over the minds of many, that it 
was with difficulty the most turbulent of them could 
be restrained from running immediately to arms, 
and committing depredations on the exposed fron- 
tiers. This hasty measure, however, he represent- 
ed as calculated to defeat the great plan of opera- 
tions which he was labouring to concert ; and en- 
joined the utmost secrecy and quietness, until the 
moment should arrive, when, all their preparations 
being ready, they might be able to strike a deci- 
sive blow ; in the mean time, they were to be indus- 
triously employed in collecting arms and ammu- 
nition, and other necessary implements of war. 

Having ordained a chief prophet, whose word 
was to be regarded as infallible, and whose direc- 
tions were to be implicitly followed, and established 
a regular gradation of inferior dependants, to dis- 
seminate his doctrines through the different parts 
of the nation. Tecumseh set out to his own tribe, 
accompanied by several of the natives. 

From this time, a regular communication was 
kept up between the Creeks and the northern 
tribes, in relation to the great enterprise which 
they were concerting together; whilst the parties 
carrying it on committed frequent depredations on 
the frontier settler?. By one of these, in the sum- 
mer of IS 12, several families had been murdered 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 33 

in a shocking manner, near the mouth of the Ohio 
and, shortly afterwards, another party, entering tho 
limits of Tennessee, under circumstances of still 
greater barbarity, butchered two families of women 
and children. Similar outrages were committed on 
the frontiers of Georgia, and were continued, at 
intervals, on the inhabitants of Tennessee, aionar 
tier southern boundary. 

These multiplied outrages, at length, attracted 
the a t t en tion of the general government, and ap- 
plication was made, through their agent, (Colonel 
Hawkins,) to the principal chiefs of the nation, 
who, desirous of preserving their friendly relation 
with the United States, resolved to punish the 
murderers with death ; and immediately appointed 
a party of warriors to carry their determination 
into execution. No sooner was this done, than the 
spirit of the greater part of the nation, which, from 
policy, had been kept, in a considerable degree, 
dormant, suddenly burst into a flame, and kindled 
into civil war. 

It was not difficult for the friends of those mur- 
derers, who had been put to death, to prevail on 
others, who secretly applauded the acts for which 
they suffered, to enter warmly into their resent 
ments against those who had been concerned in 
bringing them to punishment. An occasion as 
they believed, was now presented whieh fully au- 
thorized them to throw aside all those injunctions 
of secrecy imposed on them by Tecumseh and 
their prophets. They now resolved to lay aside all 
restraint, and execute at once their insatiate and 
long-projected vengeance, not only on the white 
people, but on those of their own nation, who, by 



34 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

this last act of retaliatory justice, had unequivocally 
shown a disposition to preserve their friendship 
with the former. The war clubs* were immedi- 
ately seen in every section of the nation ; but more 
particularly among the numerous hordes residing 
near Alabama. Brandishing these in their hands, 
they rushed, in the first instance, on those of their 
own countrymen who had shown a disposition to 
preserve their relations with the United States, and 
obliged them to retire towards the white settle- 
ments, and place themselves in forts, to escape the 
first ebullition of their rage. Encouraged by this 
success, and their numbers, which hourly increas- 
ed, and infatuated to the highest degree by the 
predictions of their prophets, who assured them that 
the "Great Spirit" was on their side, and would 
enable them to triumph over all their enemies, they 
began to make immediate preparations for extend- 
ing their ravages to the white settlements. Fort 
Mimms, situated in the Tensaw settlement, in the 
Mississippi territory, was the first point destined to 
satiate their vengeance. It contained, at that time, 
about one hundred and fifty men, under the command 
of Major Beasley, besides a considerable number of 
women and children, who had betaken themselves 
to it for security. Having collected a supply of 
ammunition from the Spaniards at Pensacola, and 
assembled their warriors, to the number of six or 



* Instruments used by the Indian tribes on commencing hos- 
tilities; and which, when painted red,, they consider a declaration 
of war. They are formed of a stick, about eighteen inches in 
length, with a strong piece of sharp iron affixed at the end, and 
resemble a hatchet. They use them principally in pursuit, and 
after they have been able to iciroduce confusion into the ranks 
of an enemy. 



MFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 35 

seven hundred, the war party, commanded by 
Weatherford, a distinguished chief of the natron, on 
the 30th of August, commenced their assault on the 
fort; and, having succeeded in currying it, put to 
death nearly three hundred persons, including 
women and children, with the most savage barbari- 
ty. The slaughter was indiscriminate: mercy was 
extended to none ; and the tomahawk, at the same 
6troke, often cleft the mother and the child. But 
seventeen of the whole number in the fort escaped, 
to bring intelligence of the dreadful catastrophe. 
This monstrous and unprovoked outrage was no 
sooner known in Tennessee, than the whole state 
was thrown into a ferment. Considerable excite- 
ment had already been produced by brutalities of 
earlier date, and measures had been adopted by 
the governor, in conformity with instructions from 
the secretary of war, for commencing a campaign 
against them ; but the massacre at Fort Minims, 
which threatened to be followed by the entire de- 
struction of the Mobile and Tombigbee settlements, 
inspired a deep and universal sentiment of solici- 
tude, and an earnest wish for speedy and effectual 
operations. The anxiety felt on the occasion was 
greatly increased from an apprehension that Gene- 
ral Jackson would not be able to command. lie 
was the only man, known in the state, who was 
believed qualified to discharge the arduous duties 
of the station, and who could carry with him the 
complete confidence of his soldiers. lie was at 
this time seriously indisposed, and confined to his 
room, with a fractured arm; but, although this ap- 
prehension was seriously indulged, arrangements 
were in progress, and r. easures industriously taken. 



86 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON, 

To prepare and press the expedition with every pos« 
sible despatch. 

A numerous collection of respectable citizens, 
who convened at Nashville on the ISth of Septem- 
ber, for the purpose of devising the most effectual 
ways and means of affording protection to their 
brethren in distress, after conferring with the srov- 
ernor and General Jackson, who \yas still confined 
to his room, strongly advised the propriety of march- 
ing a sufficient army into the heart of the Creek na- 
tion; and accordingly recommended this measure, 
with great earnestness, to the legislature, which, 
in a few days afterwards, commenced its session. 
That body, penetrated with the same sentiments 
which animated the whole country, immediately 
enacted a law, authorizing the executive to call into 
the field thirty-five .hundred of the militia, to be 
marched against the Indians; and, to guard against 
all difficulties, in the event the general govern- 
ment should omit to adopt them into their service, 
three hundred thousand dollars were voted for their 
support. 

The settlers were fleeing to the interior, and 
e\ery day brought intelligence that the Creeks, 
collected in considerable force, were bending their 
course towards the frontiers of Tennessee. The 
governor now issued an order to General Jackson, 
who, notwithstanding the state of his health, had 
determined to assume the command, requiring him 
to call out, and rendezvous at Fayctteville, in the 
shortest possible time, two thousand of the militia 
and volunteers of his division, to repel any invasion 
that might be contemplated. Colonel Coffee, in 
audition to five hundred cavalry, already raised, un- 
der his command, was authorized to organize an& 



LIFE Of GENERAL JACKSON. 37 

receive into his rcgimer.t any mounted riflemen 
that might make a tender of their se-rvices. 

Having received these orders, Jackson hastened 
to give them effect ; and with thia ohject appealed 
to those volunte< r . ho, with him, had heretofore 
led the v ippi to N I ihez. He ur 
,i to appear at the rendezvous, on the 4th of 
October, equipped for active service. He poin 
out the imperious necessity which ded their 

services, and urged them to be punctual; for their 
frontiers were threatened by •• In the 

mean time, until thi i I ould be coll 

I, Colo ilh the then un- 

der his ■ ■ and buch additional moui 

riflemen as could be t irt no! 

ted to J ' forward to the neighbourhood 
of J lunl rible position for 

the i I" th" frontier, m >uld 

arrive; when it was contemplated, by the i 

l to Fort St. Si phen, with 
a view to the pn '■ t of JM ippL 

Everj tion was now made to hasten the prep- 

arations for a vigorous campaign. Orders were 
n to the quarter-master, to furnish the neces- 
munil . with the proper transportation ; and 
to the contractors, to provide ample supplies of pro- 
ins. The day of their n vous being arriv- 
ed, and the genera] not being sufficiently recovered 
to attend in person, he forwarded by his aid-de- 
camp, Major Reid, an address, to he read to the 
troops, a< companied by an order for the establish- 
ment of the police of the camp. 

For the police of his camp, he announced the 
following order : 



33 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

"The chain of sentinels will be marked, and the 
Bcntries posted, precisely at ten o'clock to-day. 

"No sutler will be suffered to sell spirituous 
liquors to any soldier, without permission, in writ- 
ing, from a commissioned officer, under the penal- 
ties prescribed by the rules and articles of war. 

"No citizen will be permitted to pass the chain 
of sentinels, after retreat beat in the evening, until 
reveille in the morning. Drunkenness, the bane of 
all orderly encampments, is positively forbidden, 
both in officers and privates: officers, under the 
penalty of immediate arrest; and privates, of being 
placed under guard, there to remain until liberated 
by * court martial. 

"At reveille beat, all officers and soldiers are to 
appear on parade, with their arms and accoutre- 
ments in proper order. 

"On parade, silence, the duty of a soldier, 13 
positively commanded. 

"No officer or soldier is to sleep out of camp 
but by permission obtained." 

These rules, to those who had scarcely yet pass- 
ed the line that separates the citizen from the sol 
dier, and who had not yet laid aside the notions of 
self-sovereignty, had the appearance of too much 
rigour; but the general well knew, that the expe- 
dition in which they were embarked involved much 
hazard; and that, although such lively feelings were 
manifested now, yet, when hardships pressed, those 
might cease. 

Impatient to join his division, although his health 
was far from being restored, his arm only begin- 
ning to heal, the general, in a few days afterwards, 
set out for the encampment, and reached it ou the 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 39 

7th Finding, on his arrival, that the requisition 
not complete, either in the number of men, or 
the necessary equipments, measures were instantly 
taken to remedy the deficiency. Orders were di 
rected to the several brigadiers in his division, to 

•••ii immediately their respective quotas, fully 
equipped for active operations. 

Circumstances did not permit him to remain at 
this place long enough to have the delinquencies 
complained <>f remedied, and the ranks of his army 
tilled, i lolonel I | d with hid 

mounted volunteers to cover Huntsville, and g 
security to the frontiers, where alarm tly pre- 
vailed. <>n the night of thi Bl . a letter was re- 
reived from him, dated two days before, advising, 
that two Indians, belonging to the peace party, had 
just arrived at the Tennessee River, from Chinna- 
I'nrt, on the d with information that the 

war party had despatched eight hundred or a thou- 
sand of their warriers to attack the frontiers of 
Georgia; and, with the remainder of their forces, 
arching againsl Huntsville, or Fort Hamp- 
ton, lit consequence of this intelligence, exertions 
were made to hasten a movement. Late on the fol- 
lowing night, another express arrived, confirming 
the fermer and representing the enemy, 

in great force, to be rapidly approaching the Ten- 
: jee. Orders were qow given for preparing the 
of march, and by nun k the next day the 

whole division was in motion. They had not pro- 
ceeded many miles, when they were met with in 
tclligcnce thai Colonel Gibson, who had been sent 
out by Coffee to reconnoitre the movements of the 
enemy, had been killed bv their advance. A strong 
re had hern manifested tone led forward: that 



40 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

desire was now strengthened by the information just 
received; and it was with difficulty their emotions 
could be restrained. They accelerated their pace 
and before eight o'clock at night arrived at Ilunts- 
ville, a distance of thirty-two miles. Learning 
here, that the information was erroneous which iiad 
occasioned so hasty a movement, the general en- 
camped his troops; having intended to march t.hem 
that night to the Tennessee River had it been con- 
firmed. The next day the line of march was re- 
sumed. The influence of the late excitement was 
now visible in the lassitude which followed its re- 
moval. Proceeding slowly, they crossed the Ten- 
nessee, at Ditto's Landing, and united in the eve- 
ning with Colonel Coffee's regiment, which had 
previously occupied a commanding bluff, on tho 
south bank of the river. From this place, in a few 
days afterwards, Jackson detached Colonel Coffee, 
with seven hundred men, to scour the Black War- 
rior, a stream running from the north-east, and 
emptying into the Tombigbee ; on which were sup- 
posed to be settled several populous villages of the 
enemy. lie himself remained at this encampment 
a week, using the utmost pains in training hU 
troops for service, and labouring incessantly to pro- 
cure the necessary supplies for a campaign, which 
he had determined to carry directly into the heart 
of the enemy's country. 

With General Cocke, who commanded the divis- 
ion of East Tennessee militia, an arrangement had 
been made the preceding month, in winch he had 
eno-azed to furnish large quantities of bread stuff, 
at Ditto's Landing. The facility of procuring it in 
that quarter, and the convenient transportation af- 
forded by the river, left no doubt on the mind o. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 



41 



Jackson but that the engagement would be punctu- 
ally complied with. To provide, however, against 
the bare possibility of a failure, and to be guarded 
against all contingencies that might happen, he had 
addressed his applications to various other sources. 
He had, on the same subject, written in the most 
pressing manner to the governor of Georgia, with 
whose forces it was proposed to act in concert; to 
Colonel Meigs, agent to the Cherokee nation of In- 
dians, and to General White, who commanded the 
advance of the East Tennessee troops. Previously 
to his arrival at Iluntsville, he had received assur- 
ances from the two latter, that a considerable sup- 
ply of flour, for the use of his army, had been pro 
cured, and was then at Hiwassee, where boats were 
ready to transport it. Prom General Cocke, about 
the same time, a letter was re I ; stating that 

a hundred and fifty barrels "f flour were then on 
the way to his encampment; and expressing a be- 
lief, that ho should be able t'> procure, and forward 
on immediately, a I nd barrels mnro. With 

pressing importunity, he had addressed himself to 
the contractors, and they had ghen him assurances, 
that, on his crossing the Tennessee, they would be 
prepared with twenty days' rations for his whole 
command ; but finding, on his arrival at Ditto's, that 
their preparations were not in such forwardness a? 
he had been led to expect, he was compelled, for ? 
time, to suspend any active and general operations. 
Calculating, however, with great confidence on 
exertions, which, he hid been promised, should be 
unremitting, and on the Speedy arrival of those sup- 
plies descending the nvcr, which had hecn already 
unaccountably delayed he hoped, in a few days, to 
be placed in a situation to act efiiciently. Whilst 
4 * 



42 LIFE OF GEZSEB.A.L JACKSON. 

he was encouraged by these expectations, and only 
waiting- their fulfilment, that he might advance, 
Shelocta, the son of Chinnaby, a principal chief 
among the friendly Creeks, arrived at his camp, 
to solicit his speedy movement for the relief of his 
father's fort, which was then threatened by a con- 
siderable body of the war party, who had advanced 
to the neighbourhood of the Ten Islands, on the 
Coosa. Influenced by his representations, and 
anxious to extend relief, Jackson, on the 18th, gave 
orders for taking up the line of inarch on the fol- 
lowing day, and notified the contractors of this ar- 
rangement, that they might be prepared to issue, 
immediately, such supplies as they had on hand ; 
but, to his great astonishment, he then, for the first 
time, was apprized of their entire inability to sup- 
ply him whilst on his march. Having drawn what 
they had in tiieir power to furnish, amounting to 
c nly a few days' rations, they were deposed from 
ofnee, and others appointed, on whose industry and 
performance, he believed, he might more safely 
rely. The scarcity of his provisions, however, at a 
moment like the present, when there was every ap- 
pearance that the enemy might be met, and a blow 
stricken to advantage, was not sufficient to wave 
his determination. The route he would have to 
make, to gain the fort, lay, for a considerable dis- 
tance, up the river. He determined to proceed ; 
and, having passed his army and baggage wagons 
over several mountains of stupendous size, and 
such as were thought almost impassable by foot 
passengers, he arrived, on the 2 2d of October, at 
Thompson's Creek, which empties into the Tennes- 
see, twenty-four miles above Ditto's. At this place 
he proposed the establishment of a permanent de- 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 43 

pot, for the reception of supplies, to be sent either 
up or down the river. Disappointed in the hopes 
with which lie bad adventured on his march, lie re- 
mained here several days, in expectation of the 
boats that were coining to bis relief. THira harass- 
ed at the first onset, by difficulties wholly unex- 
pected, and which, from the numerous and stro 

urances received, be could by no means hive 
calculated on; fearing, too, that the same di regard 
of duty might induce a continuance, he lost no time 
in opening every avenue to ex] : , that the 

chances of future failure might be diminished. 1 
General Flournoy, who comman kd le, ho 

plied, urging him to procure bread ind have 

it forwarded up the Alabama by the time he should 
arrive ou that river. The agent of the C 
Colonel M'Kee, who was then on the Tombu. 
v. ; - addn •' entreaty. Ex- 

pr< tched to G eral White, wh i 

■ ith the advance of the East Tenn division, 

had arrived at the Look-out Mountain, in thi Cher- 
okee nation, urging him, by all means, to hasten on 
the supplies. The i oce of the governor of 

Tennessee was also earnestly besought. To,facili- 
tate exertion, and to ire succe ry tiling 

within his reai b was attempted: - ! persons of 

wealth and patriotism, in .M n county, were so- 

licited to afford the con': I all the aid in their 

power; and, to induce tin ;.i more readily to extend 
it, their deep interest, immediately .ke, was 

pointed to. an ! their deplorable and dangerous situ- 
tion. should necessity compel him to withdraw Ins 
army, and leave them exposed to the mercy of the 
savages. 



44 LIFE OF GENFRAL JACKSON. 

Whilst these measures were taking, two nin 
ners, from Turkey town, an Indian village, des- 
patched by Path-killer, a chief of the Cherokees, 
arrived at the camp. They brought information, 
tiiat the enemy, from nine of the hostile towns, 
were assembling in great force near the Ten 
Islands; and solicited that immediate assistance 
should be afforded the friendly Creeks and Chcro- 
kees, in their neighbourhood, who were exposed to 
such imminent danger. His want of provisions 
was not yet remedied; but, distributing the partial 
supply that was on hand, he resolved to proceed, in 
expectation that, the relief he had so earnestly 
looked for, would, in a little while, arrive, and be 
forwarded to him. 

He instructed General White to form a junction 
with him, and to hasten on all the supplies in his 
power to command; witii about six days' rations 
of meat, and less than two of meal, he again put 
his army in motion to meet the enemy. Although 
there was some hazard in advancing into a country 
where relief was not to be expected with such 
limited preparation, yet, believing that his contrac- 
tors, lately installed, would exeri themselves to the 
utmost to forward supplies, and that, amidst 'he va- 
riety of arrangements made, all could not fail, and 
well aware that his delaying longer might be pro- 
ductive of many disadvantages, his determination 
was taken to set out immediately in quest of t!:<? 
enemy. He replied to the Path-killer, by his run- 
ners, that he should proceed directly for the Coosa. 
and solicited him to be diligent in making discove- 
ries of the situation, and collected forces of the 
savages, and to give him. as early as possible the 
result of his inquiries. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 45 

" The liostilc Creeks," he remarked to him, "will 
not attack you until they liave had a bru.-di with 
and that, I think, will put them out of the notion 01 
iting for some time." lie r« ted, if he had 
>old any how procure, provi for his army 

that he would send them, or advise where * 
it be hud : M Vou sliall 1 • A paid, and i. 
my thanks into the Bargain. I .... -' I . . I 08t in 
Deed of corn meal, but shall ho thankful for an] 
I of provisions; and, indeed, for \ r nil' 

support h: 

Th iy had ;i ed but ;i ace 

vhen unexpected eml ments 

tented, [ufonuatiou was r . by which it 

clearly ascertained, that the pres< >nt contrac 
, who had been so certainly relied add 

not, with "ill their exei procure the a< i 

sup] . Major Rose, in the quarter-ma 
.ii'Mit, u bo had 1" into Ad 

to aid them in their <n . \ 

him - w I'll from their out □ ads 

evidence, that their want of fund.-, and consequent 
of credit, rendered them a very i 
had returned, and di 
general. He stated, that there were there 

1 er ona of fortune and indi i * bc 

in. and who would be willing to c< I 

for tiie army if it were necessary. Jackson lost 
no time in embracing this plan, and gave tin- con- 
tract to Mr. 1' a w Ik.- ■ . he hoped, 
every reliance might 1m- safely n . To the 

. informing them of the 
change that had been ma 

-I ain advii id !i", "that you have <an- 

didly acknowledged y< e it nut in your po 



46 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

to execute the contract in which you hav'e engaged. 
Do not think I mean to cast any reflection — very 
far from it. I am exceedingly pleased with the 
exertions you have made, and feel myself under 
many obligations of gratitude for them. From the 
admissions you have been candid enough to mal-e. 
the scarcity which already begins to appear in 
camp, and the difficulties you are likely to encoun- 
ter, in effecting your engagements, I am apprehen- 
sive I should be doing injustice to the army I com- 
mand, were I to rely for support on your exertions — 
great as I know them to be. Whatever concerns 
myself, I may manage with any generosity or 
indulgence I please ; but in acting for my country, 
I have no such discretion." 

This arrangement being made, the army con- 
tinued its march, and, having arrived within a few 
miles of the Ten Islands, was met by old Chinnaby, 
a leading chief of the Creek nation, and sternly op- 
posed to the war party. He brought with him, and 
surrendered up, two of the hostile Creeks, who had 
been lately made prisoners by his party. At this 
place, it was represented, that they were within 
sixteen miles of the enemy, who were collected, to 
the number of a thousand, to oppose their passage. 
This information was little relied on, and afterwards 
proved untrue. Jackson continued his route, and 
in a few days reached the islands of the Coosa; 
having been detained a day on the way, for the 
purpose of obtaining small supplies of corn from 
the neighbouring Indians. This acquisition to the 
scanty stock on hand, whilst it afforded subsistence 
for the present, encouraged his hopes for the future, 
as a mean of temporary resort, should his other 
resources fail 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 47 

On the 28th of October, Colonel Dyer, who, on 
the march to the Ten Islands, had been detached 
from the main body, with two hundred cavalry, to 
attack Lattafutchee town, on the head of Canoe 
Creek, which empties into the Coosa from the west, 
returned, bringing with him twenty-nine prisoners, 
men, women, and children, having destroyed the 
village. 

The sanguine expectations indulged, on leaving 
Thompson's Creek, that the advance of the East 
Tennessee militia would hasten to unite With him, 
was not yet realized. The express hereto r ore di- 
rected to Genera] White had not returned. Jack- 
son, on the .'ilst, despatched another, again urging 
him to effect a speedy junction, and to bring with 
him all the bread stuff in his power to procure; 
feelingly siiL r L r < , >tini,'- to him, at the Bame time, the 
great inconvenience and hazard, to which he had 
been already exposed, for the want of punctuality 
m himself and his commanding general. Owing to 
that cause, and the late failures of his contractors, 
he represented his army as placed in a very prc- 

rious situation, dependent, in a great measure, 
fur support, on the exertions which they might be 
■d to make; but assured him, lie would still, 
at every risk, endeavour to effect his purpose; and, 
at all events, was resolved to hasten to the accom- 
plishment of the object, f>r which he had set out. 
Believing the co-operation of the Mast Tennessee 
troops essentia] to this end, they were again in- 
structed to join him without, delay; for he could 
not conceive it to be correct policy, that troops 
from the same state, pursuing the same object, 
■hould constitute separate and distinct armies, and 
net without concert, and independently of each 



40 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

other. lie entertained no doubt but that liiu crdet 
would be promptly obeyed. 

The next evening, a detachment, which had been 
sent oui ihe day before, returned to camp, bringing 
with them, besides some corn and beeves, severa. 
negroes and prisoners of the war party. 

Learning now that a considerable body of the 
enemy had posted themselves at Tallushatchee, on 
the south Bide ol" the Coosa, about thirteen miics 
distant, General Coffee was detached, with nine 
hundred men, to attack and disperse them. With 
this force he was enabled, through the direction of 
an Indian pilot, to ford the Coosa, at the Fish-dam-, 
about fo.ir miles above the islands ; and, having en- 
camped beyond it, very early the next morning 
proceeded to tne execution of his order. Having 
arrived wiiliiu a mile and a half, he formed his 
detachment imo two divisions, and directed them to 
march so as to encircle the town, by uniting their 
fronts beyond' it. The enemy, hearing of his ap- 
proach, begun to prepare for action, announced by 
beating ol drums, mingled with savage yells and 
war-whoops. An hour after sun-rise, the action 
was commenced by Captain Ilammon's and Lieu- 
tenant Pattersons companies of spies, who had 
gone within the encie of alignernent, for the pur- 
pose of drawing the Indians from their buildings. 
No sooner had these companies given a few scat- 
tering shot, than the enemy made a violent charge. 
Compelled to give way, the advance guards were 
pursued until they readied the main body of the 
army, which immediately charged in turn. The 
Indians retreated, firing and fighting as long as 
they could stand or sit, without manifesting fear, 
or soliciting quarter. Their less was a hundred 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 49 

and eighty-six killed ; among whom were a few 
women and children. 1 jhty-four women and 
children were taken prisoners, towards whom the 
utmost humanity was shown. Of the Americans, 
five were killed, and forty-one wounded. Two 
were killed with arrows, which, on this occasion, 
formed a principal pari of the arms of the Indian 
each one having a bow and quiver, which he us< d 
afler the first tire of bis gun, until an opportunity 
occurred for re-loading. 

Having buried h ', and provided for his 

wounded, Genera] Coffee, the evening of the sai 
day, united with t in army, bringing with him 

about forty prisoners. Of tic residue, a part were 
too badly wounded to be removed, and were there- 
fore left, \\ ith a sufficient number to take care of 
them. 

From the manner in which the enemy fought, 
the killing and wounding others than their worrit 
• be avoided. On their retreat to th< 
villi ■. after the commei at of the batt 

they resorted to their block ho ; Btroru? 1 - 

dwellings, whence they kept up resistance, and 
mail • fight. Mingled with 

their women and children, it ble they 

should not be exposed to the general danger; and 
thus many were injured, notwithstanding every 
possible precaution. Many of the women united 
with their warriors, and contended in ibc battle 
with fearless bravery. 
5 



50 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSOT. 



CHAPTER III. 

General Jackson enfeavours tc unit? villi the East Tennestei 
troops.— Establishment of Fori Strother.— Learns the enemy 
are unbodied.— JUoj dies to meet them.— Battle of Talladega.— 
h compelled to return to his encampment, nt of supplies. — 

Anecdote.— Discontents of his army.—MiHLu\ and valuta 
tmitiny.— Address to tlu -! n Fort 

St <A er. — Hillabee clans sue j?r peace. — Letter from the Rev. 
Mr. Blackburn. — Answer. — The volunteers i 
dutrged. — Mutiny. — Address to tltem — General Cocke an 
viHi part of his division. — General Ccjfee-'a I 
for a discharge. — General Juc/cson's answer. — They aban 
the service, anil go Lmnc. 



es were now taken to establish a pe 
manent depot on the nortl: bank of the river, a- 
the Ten Islands, to be protected by strong picket- 
ting and block houses. It was desirable to unite, 
as soon as possible, with the troops from the E 
of Tennessee ; to effect this, Jackson, on the 4th, 
despatched an express to General White, urging 
him to unite with him as soon as possible, and 
again entreating him on the subject of provisions ; 
to bring with him such as he had on hand, or could 
procure ; and, if possible, to form some certain ar- 
rangement that might ensure a supply in future. 

Anxious to proceed, and have his army active, 
fee again, on the morning of the 7th, renewed his 
application to General White, who still remained 
it Turkey town. 

The army was busily engaged in fortifying the 
■ute fixed on for a depot, to which the name of 
i?ort Strother had been given. On the evening of 
the 7th, a runner arrived from Talladega, a fort of 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON'. 51 

the friendly Indians, thirty miles below, with in 
formation, that the enemy had that morning en 
camped before it in great numl nd would 

certainly i y it, unless immediate assistance 

could be afforded. on, confiding in the state- 

ment, determined to 1 no 1 in extending the 
relief which was solicit Underst : that 

' neral White was on his way to join him, he 
despatched a n r. • i to reach 

encampmenl in f the i n ting night, 

and to protect it in .' He 

orders for taking op th< march, with twelve 

hundred infantry, and • t hundred cavalry 

inted gun-men; !• behind the sick, the 

wounded, and all his bag , with a force which 
deemed ml for their protection, until the 

reinforcement from Turkey town should arrive. 

The friendly Indians, who had taken refuge in 

this be ' : fort, had involved th< in their 

lent perilous situation, from a disposition to 

\ <■ their amical with the United 

T mffer them 1 See, from any 

tardine '. Id hai e been unpar 

donable ; and, unless relief were inu I ex 

. it might arrive too ! tte. A< I in ; ui 
thes ns, tb . i ncluded to n 

• i their a B; twelve 

was in r< : and 

In an hour 

the i .■ out a mp ; each 

of the mourn* n carryh • e of the infantry 

behind him. The i at 1 six huu- 

dicd yi . and, ii being necessary I 

for the remainder of the infantry 

ral hours were consumed before a passage of 



52 LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. 

all the troops could bo effected. Nevertheless, 
though greatly fatigued, and deprived of sleep, 
they continued the march with animation, and by 
evening had arrived within six miles of the enemy; 
In this march, Jackson used the utmost precaution 
to prevent surprise ; marching his army, as was 
his constant custom, in three columns, so that, by 
a speedy manoeuvre, they might be thrown into 
such a situation as to be. capable of resisting an 
attack from any quarter. Having judiciously en- 
camped his men on an eligible piece of ground, lie 
sent forward two of the friendly Indians, and a 
white man, who had, for many years, been detained 
a captive in the nation, and was now acting H3 
interpreter, to reconnoitre the position of the ene- 
my. About eleven o'clock at night, they returned 
with information that the savages were posted 
within a quarter of a mile of the fort, and appeared 
to be in great force ; but that they had not been 
able to approach near enough to ascertain either 
their numbers or precise situation. Within an 
hour after this, a runner arrived from Turkey 
town, with a letter from General White, stating, 
that, after having taken up the line of march, to 
unite at Fort Strother, he had received orders from 
General Cocke to change his course, and proceed 
to the mouth of Chatauga Creek. It was most 
distressing intelligence ; the sick and wounded had 
been left, with no other calculation for their safety, 
than that this detachment of the army, agreeably 
to his request, would, by advancing upon Fort 
Strother, serve the double purpose of protecting his 
rear, and enable him to advance still further into 
the enemy's country. The information proved that 
all those salutary anticipations were at an end, and 



LIFE OK GENERAL JACKSON. 53 

that evils of the worst kind might be the conse- 
quence. Intelligence so disagreeable filled the 
mind of Jackson with apprehension. Orders were 
accordingly given to the adjutant-general to pre- 
pare the line, and by four o'clock in the morning, 
the army wa3 again in motion. The infantry pro- 
ceeded in three columns ; the cavalry in the same 
order, in the rear, with flankers on each wing. 
The advance, consisting of a company of ar- 
tillerists, with muskets, two companies of riflemen, 
and one of spies, marched about four hundred yards 
in front, under the command of C 1 <';;rroli. 

gc tor-general, with orders, after commencing 
the action, to fall back on the centre, so a-; to 
draw the enemy after them. At seven o'clock, 
having arrived within a mile or the petition they 
occupied, the columns were displayed \.\ order of 
battle. Two hun Ired and fifty of the cavalry, 
under Lieutenant-Colonel Dyer, jwere placed in 
the rear of the centre, as a corps de reserve. 
The remainder of the 1 1 troops wore di- 

recte I to advance on the right and left, am!, after 
encircling the enemy, by uniting the fronts of their 
columns, and keeping their rear rested on the in- 
fantry, to face and press towards the centre, so as 
to leave them no possibility of escape. There* 
maining part of the army was ordered to move up 
by beads of companies : General Hall's brigade 
occupying the right, and General Roberts's the 
left. 

About eight o'clock, the advance having ar- 
rived within eighty yards of the enemy, who were 
concealed in a thick shrubbery, received a heavy 
lire, which they instantly returned with much spirit. 
5* * 



54 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 



Falling in with the enemy, agreeabijr to their m 

structions, they retired towards the centre, but not 
before they had dislodged them from their position. 
The Indians, now screaming and yelling hideously, 
rushed forward in the direction of General Roberts's 
brigade, a few companies of which, alarmed by 
their numbers and yells, gave way at the first 
fire. Jackson, to fill the chasm which was thus 
created, directed the regiment commanded by 
Colonei Bradley to be moved up, which, from some 
unaccountable cause, had failed to advance in a 
line with the others, and now occupied a position 
in rear of the centre : Bradley, however, to whom 
this order was given by one cf the staff, omitted to 
execute it in time, alleging, he was determined to 
remain on the eminence which lie then possessed, 
until lie should be approached, and attacked by the 
enemy. Owing to this failure in the volunteer 
regiment, it became necessary to dismount the re- 
serve, which, witli great firmness, met the approach 
of the enemy, who were rapidly moving in this 
direction. The retreating militia, somewhat mor- 
tified at seeing tiieir places so promptly supplied, 
rallied, and, recovering their former position in the 
.inc, aided in checking the advance of the sav- 
ages. The action now became general along the 
line, and in fifteen minutes the Indians were seen 
fleeing in every direction. On the left, they were 
met and repulsed by the mounted riflemen ; but on 
the right, owing to the halt of Bradley's regiment, 

which was intended to occupy the extreme right, 

and to the circumstance of Colonel AUcorrT, who 
commanded one of the wings of the cavalry, hav 
mg taken too large a circuit, — a considerable space 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 55 

was loft between the infantry and the cavalry, 
^through which numbers escaped. 

Jackson, in his report of this action, bestows 
high commendation on the officers and soldiers. 

In this battle the force of the enemy was one 
thousand and eighty, of whom two hundred and 
ninety-nine were left dead on the ground : and it 
is believed that many were killed in the flight, who 
were not found when the estimate was made 
Probably icw escaped unhurt Their loss on tin- 
occasion, as stated since by themselves, was not 
less than six hundred ; that of the Americans v. 
fifteen k : !led, and eighty wounded, several of whom 
afterwards died. Jackson, after collecting his 
dead and wounded, advanced his army beyond the 
fort, and encamped for the night The Indians, 
who had been for several days shut up by the be- 
siegers, thus fortunately liberated from the most 
dreadful apprehensions, and severest privations, 
having for some time been entirely without water, 
received the army with all the demonstrations of 
gratitude that sa> could give. Their man- 

ifestations of joy for their deliverance p ted 
an interesting and affecting spectacle. Their fears 
had been already greatly excifc d, for it was the 
wry day when they were to have been assault- . 
and when every soul within the fort must have 
perish. >d. All the provisions they could spare 
from their scanty stock, they sold to the general 
Who, purchasing with his own moicy, distributed 
them amongst the soldiers, who were almost des- 
titute. 

The condition of his posts in the rear, and the 
want of provisions, (having left his encampment at 



56 LTFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

Fort Strother with little more than one day's ra- 
tions,) compelled him to return ; thus giving the 
enemy time to recover. 

The cause which prevented General White from 
arriving at the Ten Islands at a moment when il 
was so important, when it was so confidently ex- 
pected, was as yet unknown. This mystery, hith- 
erto inexplicable, was some time after explained, 
by a view of the order of General Cocke, under 
which White, being a brigadier in his division, 
chose to act, rather than under Jackson's. Gene- 
ral Cocke stated to him, he had understood Jackson 
had crossed the Coosa, and had an engagement 
with the Indians. " I have formed a council of 
officers here, and proposed these questions : — Shal J 
we follow him, or cross the river, and proceed to 
the Creek settlements on the Tallapoosa? Both 
were decided unanimously, — that he should not be 
followed, but that we should proceed in the way 
pioposed !" He remarked, that the decision had 
met his entire approbation; and directed White 
forthwith to unite with him at his encampment 
where he should wait, fortifying it strongly for a 
depot, until he should arrive. " If," said he, " we 
follow General Jackson and his army, we must 
suifer for supplies ; nor can we expect to gain a 
victory. Let us then take a direction in which we 
can share some of the dangers and glories of the 
Meld. You will employ pilots, and advise me which 
side of the river you will move up." In this, as in 
every other measure, it seemed to be the studied 
aim of Cocke to thwart the views and arrest the 
successes of Jackson ; and perhaps jealousy, in no 
inconsiderable degree, was the moving spring to 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 57 

his conduct. Both were majoi -generals, from the 
state of Tennessee, sent on the same important 
errand, to check an insolent foe. 

Having buried his dead, and provided litters for 
the wounded, Jackson reluctantly commenced his 
return march on the morning succeeding the battle. 
He confidently hoped, from the previous assurances 
of the contractors, that, by the time of his return 
to Fort Strother, sufficient supplies would have 
arrived there ; but, to his inexpressible uneasi- 
ness, he found that not a particle had been for- 
warded since his departure, and that what had 
been left was already consumed. Even his private 
stores, brought on at his own expense, and upon 
which he and his staff had hitherto wholly sub- 
sisted, had been, in his absence, distributed amongst 
the sick by the hospital surgeon, who had been 
previously instructed to do so, in the event their 
wants should require it. A few dozen biscuit, 
which remained on his return, were given to 
hungry applicants, without being tasted by himself 
or family, who were probably not less hungry than 
those who were thus relieved. A scanty supply of 
indifferent beef, taken from the enemy, or pur- 
chased of the Cherokeee, was now the only sup- 
port afforded. Thus left destitute, Jackson, with 
the utmost cheerfulness of temper, repaired to the 
bullock pen, and, of the offal there thrown away, 
provided for himself and stall* what he was pleased 
to call, a very comfortable repast. Tripes, how- 
ever, hastily provided in a camp, without bread or 
seasoning, can only be palatable to an appetite 
very highly whetted ; yet this constituted, for seve- 
ral days, the only diet at head-quarters : during 
which tune, the general seemed entirely satisfied 



58 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKS0.V. 

with his fare. Neither this, nor the libera] dona 
tions by which he disfurnished himself, to relieve 
the su^ering soldier, deserves to be ascribed to 
ostentation or design : the one flowed from benevo- 
lence, the other from necessity, and a desire to 
place before his men an example of patience and 
suffering, which he felt might be necessary. 

Tn this campaign, a soldier one morning, with a 
wo-begone countenance, approached the general, 
stating that he was nearly starved, that he had 
nothing to eat, and could not imagine what he 
should do. lie was the more encouraged to com- 
plain, from perceiving that the general, who had 
seated himself at the root of a tree, waiting the 
coming up of the rear of the army, was busily en- 
g'V'red in eating something. The poor fellow was 
impressed with the belief, from what he saw, that 
want only attached to the soldiers, and that the 
officers, particularly the general, were liberally 
supplied. lie accordingly approached h?m with 
great confidence of being relieved. Jackson told 
him, that it had always been a rule with him never 
to turn awav a hun<TV man when it was in his 
power to relieve him. I will most cheerfully, said 
he. divide with you what I have ; and, putting his 
hand to his pocket, drew forth a few acorns, from 
which he had been feasting, adding-, it was the best 
and only fare he had. The soldier seemed much 
surprised, and forthwith circulated amongst his 
comrades, that their general was actually subsisting 
upon acorns, and that they ought no more to com- 
plain. From this circumstance was derived the 
story heretofore published to the world, that Jack- 
son, about the period of his greatest suffering, and 
with a view to inspirit them, had invited his officers 



L(FE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 59 

o dine with him, and presented, for their repast, 
water, and a tray of acorns. 

But discontents, and a desire to return home, 
arose, and presently spread through the camp ; and 
these were Blill further augmented, by the arts of 
a few designing officers, who, believing that the 
campaign would now break up, hoped to make 
themselves popular on the return, by taking part 
in the complaints of the soldiery. It is a singular 
fact, that tiio.se officers who pretended, on this 
occasion, to feel most sensibly i«>r the wants of the 
army, had never themselves been without pro- 
visions. 

During this period of scarcity and discontent, 
small quantities of supplies wore i tonally for- 
warded by the contractors, but not a e ncy 
lor present want, ant- still loss to remove the ap- 
prehensions that wore ei . for the future. 
At length rcv-i!; began to show it The 
officers and soldiers of the militia, i king in 
their tents, and talking over their gri es, dc- 
cermined to yield u] ir patriotism, and to aban- 
don the camp. To this measure there were good 
evidences for believing that several of the officers 
of the old voluuteer corps exerted themselves 
clandestinely, and with gn I try, to insti- 
gate '! " upon them what in 
the light of vet< from the discipline they had 
acquired, they were unwilling to b 
in setting an example of mutiny, and wished to 
make the defection of others a pretext for their 
own. 

Jackson, apprized of their determination to 
abandon him, resolved to oppose it, and at all 
hazard. In the morning, when they were to carry 



60 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

their intentions into execution, he drew up the 
volunteers in front of them, with positive com- 
mands to prevent their progress, and compel them 
to return to their former position in the camp. 
The militia, seeing this, and fearing the conse- 
quences of persisting in their purpose, at once 
abandoned it, and returned to their quarters with- 
out further murmuring, extolling, in the highest 
terms, the unalterable firmness of the general. 

The next day, however, presented a singulai 
scene. The volunteers, who the day before had 
been the instruments for compelling the N militia to 
return to their dutv, seeing the destruction of those 
hopes on which they had lately built, in turn be- 
gan, themselves, to mutiny. Their opposition to 
the departure of the militia was but a mere pre- 
tence, to escape suspicion; foP they silently wished 
them success. They now determined to move olT 
in a body, believing, from the known disaffection in 
the camp, that the general could find no means to 
prevent it. What was their surprise, when, on 
attempting to effectuate their resolves, they found 
the same men, whom they had so lately opposed, 
occupying the very position which they had done 
the day previous, for a similar purpose, and mani- 
festing a fixed determination to obey the orders of 
their general ! All they ventured to do was, to 
take the example through, and, like them, move 
back in peace and quietness to their quarters. 
This was a curious change of circumstances', when 
we consider in how short a time it happened ; but 
the conduct of the militia, on this occasion, must 
be ascr'bed to the management of the genera], and 
to the giatif.cation they felt, in being able to de 
feat the views of those who had so lately thwarted 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 01 

their own. To this may be also added, the con- 
sciousness all must have entertained, that the pri- 
vations of which they complained, were far less 
grievous than they had represented them ; by no 
means sufficient to justify revolt, and not greater 
than patriots iniL r ht be expected to bear without a 
murmur, when objects of such high consideration 
were before them. But, anxious to return to their 
families, wearied of their sufferings, they seized 
with eagerness every pretext for exoneration, and 
list ned with too much docility to the representa- 
tions of those, who were influenced by less hon- 
ourable Peelings. The militia continued to show 
a much more patriotic disposition than the volun- 
teers; who, having adopted a course which they 
discovered musl finally involve them in dishonour 
if it Bhould fail, were exceedingly anxious for its 

RUCCeSS. On this subject, the pr< • lis of the 

cavalry were certainly much better established j 
they were entirely without forage, and without the 
prospect of Bpeedily obtaining any. They pe- 
titioned, therefore, to be permitted to return into the 
Bettl( il parts of the country, pledging themseJ 
by their platoon and field-officers, that, if sufficient 

time were allowed to recruit the exhausted state of 

tln-ir horses, ami to procure their winter clothing, 

they would return to the performance of their duty 

whenever 1 on. The general, unable, from 

many causes, to prosecute the campaign, and con- 
fiding in the assurance given, granted the prayer 
:>f their petition, and they immediately set out on 

their return. 

About this time, General Jackson's prospect of 
being able to maintain the conquests he had ma 
began to be cheered by letters just received from 



62 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

the contractors and principal wagon-master, stating 1 
that sufficient supplies for the army wore then on 
the road, and would shortly arrive : but discontents 
to an alarming degree still prevailed in his camp. 
To allay them, if possible, he hastened to lay lie- 
fore the division the information and letters he had 
received, and, at the same time, invited the field 
and platoon-officers to his quarters, to consult on 
the measures proper to be pursued. He addressed 
them in an animated speech, in which he extolled 
their patriotism and achievements; lamented the 
privations to which they had been exposed, and 
endeavoured to reanimate them by the prospect of 
speedy relief, which he expected with confidence 
on the following day. lie spoke of the immense 
importance of the conquests they had already made, 
and of the dreadful consequences that must result, 
should they be now abandoned. " What," con- 
tinued he, "is the present situation of our camp? 
A number of our fellow soldiers are wounded, and 
unable to help themselves. Shall it be said that 
we are so lost to humanity as to leave them in 
this condition ? Can any one, under these circum- 
stances, and under these prospects, consent to an 
abandonment of the camp ? of all that we have 
acquired in the midst of so many difficulties, priva- 
tions, and dangers ? of what it will cost us so much 
to regain ? of what we never can regain, — out 
brave wounded companions, who will be murdered 
by our unthinking, unfeeling inhumanity ? Surely 
there can be none such ! No, we will take with 
us, when we go, our wounded and sick. They 
must not — shall not perish by our cold-blooded 
indifference. But why should you despond ? I 
do not, and yet your wants are not greater than 



LIFE 01-' GENERAL JACKSON 63 

mine. To be sure we do not live sumptuously; 
but no one has died of hunger, or is likely to 
die: and then, how animating are our prospects! 
Large supplies are at Deposit, and already are 
officers despatched to hasten them on. Wagons 
arc on the way; a large number of beeves are 
in the neighbourhood; and detachments are out 
to bring them in. — All these resources surely 
cannot fail. I have no wish to starve you — none 
to deceive you. Stay contentedly ; and, if sup- 
plies do not arrive in two days, we will all march 
back together, and throw the blame of our failure 
where it should properly lie; until then, wo cer- 
tainly have the means of subsisting; and if wt? 
are compelled to bear privations, let us remember 
that they are borne for our country, and are not 
greater than many, perhaps most armies, have 
been compelled to endure. I have called you 
together, to tell you my feelings and my wishes; 
this evening think on them seriously ; and let me 
know yours in the morning." 

Having retired to their tents, the officers of the 
vol.mtcer brigade came to the conclusion, that 
^nothing short of marching th i army immediately 
back to the settlements could prevent those difficul- 
ties and that disgrace, which must attend a forcible 
desertion of the camp by his soldiers." The o 
cers of the militia determined d "' htly, and re- 
ported a willingness to maintain the post a few days 
longer. "If provisions arrive, let us proceed with 
the campaign ; if not, let us be marched back to 
where it can be procured." The general, who 
greatly preferred the latter opinion, to allay excite- 
ment, was disposed to gratify those who appeared 
unwilling to submit to further hardships; and with 



64 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSOiV. 

this view ordered General Hall to march his orio-- 
ade to Fort Deposit, and, after satisfying their 
wants, to return and act as an escort to the pro- 
visions. The second regiment, however, unwilling 
to be outdone by the militia, consented to remain , 
and the first proceeded alone. On this occasion he 
could not fox'bear to remark, that men for whom 
he had ever cherished so warm an affection, and 
for whom he would at all times have made any 
sacrifice, desiring to abandon him at a moment 
when their presence was so particularly necessary, 
tilled him with emotions which the strongest Ian- 
piago was too feeble to express. " I was prepar- 
ed," continued the general, "to endure every evil 
but disgrace ; and this, as I never can submit to 
mvsclf, I can give no encouragement to in others." 
Two days iiad elapsed since the departure of the 
volunteers, and supplies had not arrived. The 
militia, with great earnestness, now demanded a 
performance of the pledge that had been given — 
that they should be marched back to the settle- 
ments. Jackson, on giving them an assurance that 
they should return, if relief did not reach them 
in two days, had indulged a confidence that it 
would certainly arrive by that time ; and now 
from the information he had received, felt moro 
than ever certain that it could not be far distant. 
Having, however, pledged himself, he could use no 
arguments or entreaties to detain them any longer, 
and immediately took measures for complying with 
their wishes, and the promise he had made them. 
This was, to him, a moment of the deepest dejec- 
tion. He foresaw how difiicult it would be ever to 
accomplish the object upon which his heart was so 
devoutly fixed, should he lose the men who were 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. C5 

now with him ; or even to regain the conquests he 
had made, if his present posts should fall into the 
hands of the enemy. While thus pondering on 
the gloomy prospect, he lifted up his hand.--, and ex- 
claimed, with a look and manner which showed 
how much he felt, " If only two men will remain 
with me, I will never abandon this post." Captain 
Gordon, of the spies, facetiously replied, M you 
have one, general ; let us look if we can't find an- 
other ;" and immediately, with a zeal suited to the 
occasion, undertook, with some of the general stiff, 
lo raise volunteers; and in a little while succeeded 
In procuring one hundred and nine, who declan 
determination to remain and protect the post. The 
general, greatly rejoiced that he would not he com 
pelled to an entire abandonment of Jus posil 
now set out towards Deposit, with the remain 
of the army, who were given distinctly to UUi 
stand, t i meeting supplies they were to re' 

and prosecute the campaign. This was an event, 
which, as it. had been expected and foretold, soon 
took place ; they had nc4 proceeded more than ten 
or twelve miles, when they met a hundred and fifty 
beeves : hut a sight which gave to Jackson so much 
satisfaction, was to them the most unwelcome. 

ir faces being now turned towards home, no 
spectacle could be more hateful than one which 
was to change their destination. They were 
halted, and, having satisfied their appetites, the 
troops, with the exception of such as wore neces- 
sary to proceed with the sick and wounded, were 
ordered to return to the encampment ; he. himself 
intending to se ■• the contractors, and establish more 

tual arrangements for the future. So great 
was their aversion to returning, that they preferred 
G * 



66 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON* 

a violation of their duty and their pledged honour. 
Low murmurings ran along the lines, and presently- 
broke out into open mutiny. In spite of the order 
they had received, they began to revolt, and one 
company was already moving off, in a direction 
towards home. They had proceeded some distance, 
before information of their departure was had by 
Jackson. Irritated at their conduct, in attempting 
to violate the promise they had given, the genera] 
pursued, until he came near a part of his staff, and 
a few soldiers, who, with General Coffee, had 
halted about a quarter of a mile ahead. He or- 
dered them to form immediately across the road, 
and to fire on the mutineers if they attempted to 
proceed. Snatching up their arms, these faithful 
adherents presented a front which threw the de- 
serters into affright, and caused them to retreat 
precipitately to the main body. Here, it was hoped, 
the matter would end, and that no further oppo- 
sition would be made to returning. Tins expecta- 
tion was not realized ; a mutinous temper began 
presently to display itself throughout the whole 
brigade. Jackson, having left his aid-de-camp. 
Major Reid, engaged in making up some despatch- 
es, had gone out alone amongst his troops, who 
were at some distance ; on Lis arrival, he found a 
much more extensive mutiny than that which had 
just been quelled. Almost the whole brigade had 
put itself into an attitude for moving forcibly off. 
A crisis had arrived ; and, feeling its importance, 
he determined to take no middle ground, but to 
triumph cr perish. He was still without the use of 
his loft arm; but, seizing a musket, and resting it 
on the neck of his horse, he threw himself in front 
of the column, and threatened to shoot the first 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 67 

man who should attempt to advance. In this situa- 
tion he was found by Major Reid and General 
Coifee, who, fearing, from the length of his ab- 
sence, that some disturbance had arisen, hastened 
where he was, and, placing themselves by his side, 
awaited the result in anxious expectation. For 
many minutes the column preserved a sullen, yet 
hesitating attitude, fearing to proceed in their pur- 
pose, and disliking to abandon it, In the mean time, 
those who remained faithful to their duty, amount- 
ing to about two companies, were collected and 
formed at a short distance in advance of the troops, 
and in rear of the general, with positive directions 
to imitate his example in firing, if they attemp 
to proceed. At length, finding no one bold enough 
to advance, and overtaken by those fears which in 
the hour of peril always beset persons engaged in 
what they know to be a bad cause, they abandoned 
their purpose, and, turning quietly round, agreed to 
return to their pots. It is very e< rtain, that, but 
for the firmness of the •■. m ral, al this critical mo- 
ment, the campaign would have been broken up, 
and most probably not commenced again. 

Shortly after the bottle of Talladega, the Ililla- 
bee tribes applied to General Jackson for peace . 
laring their willingnt receive it on such 

terms as he might be pleased to dictate. His de- 
cision had been already returned, stating to them 
that his government hud taken up arms, to bring to 
a proper sense of duty a people to whom she had 
ever shown the utmost kindness, and who, never 
iheless, had committed against her citi/.e .s tbo 
mo?t unprovoked depredations; and that rhi vou.d 
lay them down ouiy when certain that l.r. d|fc«t 



03 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

was attained 1 . * " Upon those," continued lie, « win 
are disposed to become friendly, I neither wish not 
intend to make war; but they must afford evi- 
dences of the sincerity of their professions; (be 
prisoners and property they have taken from us, 
and the friendly Crocks, must be restored; the in- 
stigators of the war, and the murderers of our 
citizens, must be surrendered; the latter must and 
will be made to feel the force of our resentment 
Long shall they remember Fort Minims in bitter 
ness and tears." 

Having stated to General Cocke, whose division 
was acting in this section of the nation, the prop) 
sitiona that had been made by the Hillabee cla 
with the answer ho had returned, he procei '!<•■] to 
Deposit and Ditto's Tending, where the most eflR - 
tual means in his power wen- taken with the contrac 
tors, for obtaining regular supplies in future. Th< 
were required to furnish, immediately, thirty 
rations at Fort Strothcr, forty at Talladega, and 
many at the junction of the Coosa and Tallapooj i ; 
two hundred pack horses and forty wagons were 
put in requisition to facilitate their transportation 

* This communication did not arrive in rime, — fie leral V. 
who bad been detached tor that purpose, having, the morning or 
which it was written, destroyed their town, killed sixty, and 
made two hundred and fifty-six prisoners. The event was un 
fortunate; and in it may perhaps be found the i why 

these savages, in their ata t battle* n with the ■ >n 

they did, obstinately refusing to ask for quarter. They believed 
themselves attacked by Jackson's army ; they knew they had 
asked peace upon his own terms. When, therefore, under these 
circumstances, they saw themselves tl n cd, they no longci 

considered thai any pacific disposition ihey might manifest wouhl 
afford them protection from danger; and looked upon ii u a 
war of extermination, In their battles, afterwards, there is no 
instance of their asking for quarter, or even manifesting a dia 
uesition to receive it. 



LITE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 69 

Understanding, now, that the whole detachment 
from Tennessee had, by the president, been re- 
ceived into the service of the United States, he 
per8ua led himself that the difficulties lie had 
heretofore rncountered would not rer;ir. 

The vo'unteers at Deposil began to manifest the 

same unwillingness to return t(j their duty that the 

militia had done, and were about to break out into 

• i" spirit of mutiny and Fevoll ; but were 

restraii ed by an anim I | neraL 

II" .1 ■ . • on his return to Port 

and was delighted to End, by the progre - of the 
works, the industry that had tx :u his ab- 

But the satisf felt was of short 

continuance; although he had si led instilling 

the tumult of the volunteers, and in prevailing on 
i to return to th< , it was soon discovered 

he had not ermdii I d aversion to 

o further prosecution of the war. The volunteer! 
who had so tat 

they were no 1 ran to clamour, 

with equal earnestness, aboul their term of sen 
Having lately made an effort to forsake the dri 
ory of the field, and failed, they were disposed to 
avail themselves of any pretexts, 
ble, to obtain i They ii I that I 

period, for which they had u ould 

end on the Kith of December, that being the ter- 
mination of a jreaT from tl had first 
red into - , and, all had been 
a greater part of the time unemployed, that ■■ i 
neverthi I I ken u I I utation. 
Jackson r- it the law of congress, under 
which they had been a. I ; piiring one v it's 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

service out of two, could contemplate nothing less 
than an actual service of three hundred and sixty- 
five days; and, until that were performed, he could 
not, unless specially authorized, undertake to dis- 
charge them. Ordering General Roberts to return, 
and fill up the deficiencies in his brigade, he now 
despatched Colonel Carroll, and Major Searcy, one 
of his aids-de-camp, into Tennessee, to raise vol 
unteers for six months, or during the campaign , 
writing to many respectablu characters, he ex 
horted them to contribute all their assistance to 
the accomplishment of this object. To a letter, 
just received from the Reverend Gideon Black- 
burn, assuring him that volunteers from Tennessee 
would eagerly hasten to his relief, if they knew 
their services were wanted, lie replied, "Reverend 
Sir, — Your letter has been just received : I thank 
you for it ; I thank you most sincerely. It arrived 
at a moment when my spirits needed such a sup- 
port. 

"I left Tennessee with an army, brave, I be- 
lieve, as any general ever commanded. I have 
seen them in battle, and my opinion of their bravery 
is not changed. But their fortitude — on this too I 
relied — has been too severely tested. Perhaps T 
was wrong, in believing that nothing but death 
could conquer the spirits of brave men. lam sure 
I was ; for my men, I know, are brave ; yet priva 
tions have rendered them discontented : — that is 
enough. The expedition must, nevertheless, be 
prosecuted to a successful termination. New voV 
unteers must be raised, to conclude what has been 
so auspiciously begun by the old ones. Gladly 
would I save these men from themselves, and en 



LIFE OF UENBRAL JACKSON. - 71 

sure them a harvest which they have sown ; but if 
they will abandon it to others, it must be so. 

" You are good enough to say, if I need your 
assistance, it will be cheerfully afforded : I do ne-ed 
it greatly. The influence you possess over the 
minds of men is great and well-founded, and can 
never be better applied than in summoning volun- 
teers to the defence of their country, their liberty, 
and their religion. While we fight the savage, 
who makes war only because lie delights in bloc:., 
and who has gotten his booty, when he has scalped 
his victim, we are, through him, contending against 
an enemy of more inveterate character, and deeper 
design — who would demolish a fabric cemented by 
the blood of our fathers, and endeared to us by all 
the happiness we enjoy. So far as my exertions 
can contribute, the purposes, both of the savage 
and his instigator, shall bo defeated ; and. so far 
as yours can, I hope — I know, they will be employ- 
ed. I have said enough. — I want men, and want 
them immediately." 

lie wrote to Genera] Cocke, urging him to unite 
with him immediately, at the Ten Islands, with 
fifteen hundred men. He assured him that the 
mounted men, who had returned to the settlements 
for subsistence, and to recruit Hick* horses, would 
arrive by the 12th of the month. He wished to 
commence his operations directly, "knowing they 
would be prepared for it, and well knowing they 
would require it." "I am astonished," he contin- 
ued, "to hear that your supplies continue deficient, 
[n the name of God, what are the contractors doing ? 
and about what are they engaged ? Every letter 1 
receive from Governor Blount assures me I am to 
receive plentiful supplies from them, and seems to 



72 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

take for granted, notwithstanding all I have said to 
the contrary, that they have been hitherto regularly 
furnished. Considering the generous loan the 
state has made for this purpose, and the facility of 
procuring bread stuffs in East Tennessee, and of 
transporting them by water to Fort Deposit, it is to 
me wholly unaccountable that not a pound has ever 
arrived at that place. This evil must continue no 
longer — it must be remedied. I expect, therefore, 
and through you must require, that in twenty days 
they furnish at Deposit every necessary supply. 

Whilst these measures were taking, the volun- 
teers, through several of their oificers, were press- 
ing on the consideration of the general, the ex- 
piration of their term of service, and claiming to 
be discharged on the 10th of the month. From 
the colonel, who commanded the second regiment, 
he received a letter, dated the 4th, in which was 
attempted to be detailed their whole ground of 
complaint. lie began by stating, that, painful as it 
was, he, nevertheless, felt himself bound to dis- 
close an important truth; that, on the 10th, the 
service would be deprived of the regiment he com- 
manded, lie seemed to deplore, with great sensi- 
bility, the scene that would be exhibited on that 
day, should opposition be made to their departure ; 
and still more sensibly, the consequences that would 
result from a disorderly abandonment of the camp. 
He stated they had all considered themselves finally 
discharged on the 20th of April, and never knew 
to the contrary, until they saw his order of the 21th 
of September, requiring them to rendezvous at 

* Independent of an advantageous contract made with the 
government, the state of Tennessee had extended to this con- 
tractor a liberal loan, that immediate supplies might L>e forward 
ca. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACK'O.X. 73 

Fayetteville, on the 4th of October ; for the first 
time, they then learned that they owed further ser- 
-•, their discharge to the contrary notwithstand- 
" Thus situated, there was considerable op- 
tion to the order ; on which the officers gener- 
ally, as I am advised, and I know myself in partic- 
ular, it as an unequivocal opinion, that tl 
term of service would terminate on the 10th of 
December. 

«• They I r <> look to their general, who holds 

their confidence, for an honourable i on 

that day ; and that, in every respect, be will 
that justice be done them." 

Although this communication ann< I I 

termination of only a part of I er brig- 

ade, he had already abundant evidence that the 
defection was but too general. 

■•I know not," lie observed, "what scenes will 
exhibited on the 10th instant, nor what i 

UenCeS are to flow from them h< re or else- 
where : bttt, as I shall ha\e the iniisness that 

they are not imputable to any misconduct of mine, 
I trust I shall have the firmness not to shrink from 
a discharge of my duty. 

"It will be well, however, for those who intend 
to become actors in those scenes, and who are 
about to hazard bo much <>n the correctness of their 
opinions, to examine beforehand, with great caution 
and deliberation, the grounds on which their pre- 
tensions rest. Arc they founded on any false 
■: sauces of mine, or upon any deception that 
has been practised towards them? Was not the 
act of congress, under which they are cn^a^ed, 
directed, by my general order, to be read and ex- 
pounded to them before they enrolled themselves? 
7 



74 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSOJV. 

That order will testify, and so will the recollection 
of every general officer of my division. It is not 
pretended that those who now claim to be dis- 
charged were not legally and fairly enrolled under 
the act of congress of the 6th of February, 1812. 
Have they performed the service required of them 
by that act, and which they then solemnly under- 
took to perform ? That required one year's ser- 
vice out of two, to be computed from the day of 
rendezvous, unless they should be sooner discharg- 
ed. Has one year's service been performed ? This 
cannot be seriously pretended. Have they then 
been discharged ? It is said they have, and by me. 
To account for so extraordinary a belief, it may be 

necessary to take a review of past circumstances." 
* * * * *• ■* ■* 

To the platoon officers, who addressed him on 
the same subject, he replied with spirited feeling ; 
but discontent was too deeply fastened, and, by de- 
signing men, had been too artfully fomented, to be 
removed by any thing like argument or entreat}'. 
At length, on the evening of the 9th, General 
Hall hastened to the tent of Jackson, with informa- 
tion that his whole brigade was in a state of muti- 
ny, and making preparations to move forcibly oif 
This was a measure which every consideration of 
policy, duty, and honour, required Jackson to op- 
pose ; and to this purpose he instantly applied al] 
the means he possessed. He immediately issued 
the following general order : 

" The commanding general being informed thai 
an actual mutiny exists in his camp, all officers ant! 
soldiers are commanded to put it down. 

" The officers and soldiers of the first brigade 
viU, without delay, parade on the west side of the 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 75 

fort, and await further orders." The artillery com- 
pany, with two small field-pieces, being posted in 
the front and rear, and the militia, under the com- 
mand of Colonel Wynne, on the eminences in 
advance, were ordered to prevent any forcible de- 
parture of the volunteers. 

The general rode along the line, which had been 
previously formed agreeably to his orders, and 
addressed them, by companies, in a strain of im- 
passioned eloquence. He feelingly expatiated on 
their former n-ood conduct, and the esteem and 
applause it had secured them ; and pointed to the 
disgrace which they must heap upon themselves, 
their families, and country, by persisting, even if 
they could succeed, in their present mutiny. He 
told them, however, they should not succeed but by 
passing over his body ; that even in opposing their 
mutinous spirit, he should perish honourably — by 
perishing at his post, and in the discharge of his 
duty. " Reenforcements," he continued, " are pre- 
paring to hasten to my assistance : it cannot be 
long befure they will arrive. I am, too, in daily 
expectation cf receiving information whether you 
may be discharged or not — until then, you must 
not, and shall not retire. I have done with en- 
treaty, — it has been used long enough. — I will 
attempt it no more. You must now determine 
whether you will go or peaceably remain : if you 
still persist in your determination to move forcibly 
off, the point between us shall soon be decided." 
At first they hesitated ; — -he demanded an explicit 
and positive answer. They still hesitated, and he 
commanded the artdlerists to prepare the match ; 
he himself remaining in front of the volunteers, 
and within the line of fire, which he intended soon 



76 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

to order. Alarmed at his apparent determination, 
and dreading the consequences involved in such a 
contest ; " Let us return," was presently lisped 
along the line, and soon after determined upon 
The officers now came forward, and pledged them- 
selves for their men, who either nodded assent, or 
openly exoressed a willingness to retire to their 
quarters, and remain without further tumult, until 
information were had, or the expected aid should 
arrive. Thus passed away a moment of the great- 
est peril, and pregnant with important conse- 
quences. 

Although the immediate execution of their pur- 
pose was thus for the present prevented, it was 
presently ascertained not to be wholly abandoned, 
and that nothing could be expected from their 
future fidelity and services. Jackson, therefore, 
determined u> rid himself, as soon as possible, of 
men whose presence answered no other end than 
to keep alive discontents in his camp. He accord- 
ingly prepared an order to General Hall, to march 
his brigade to Nashville, and to dispose of them as 
he should be directed by the governor of Tennes- 
see. Previous to promulgating this, he resolved 
to make one further effort to retain them, and to 
make a last appeal to their honour and patriotism 
For this purpose, having assembled them before the 
fort, on the 13th, he directed his aid-de-camp to 
read an address. 

Warm and feeling as was the appeal, it failed 
of the desired effect. Captain Williamson alone 
agreed to remain. Finding that their determina- 
tion to abandon the service could not be changed, 
and that every principle of patriotism was forgot- 
ten, the general communicated his order to General 



LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. <7 

Hall, and directed him to march his brigade to 
Nashville, and await such instructions as he might 
receive from the president, or the governor of Ten- 
nessee. 

General Cocke, on the 12th, had arrived a> Fort 
Strother with fifteen hundred men; but it was 
found from his report, that no part of his troops 
had been brought into the field under the requisition 
of the president of the United States ; and that 
the terra of service of the greater portion of them 
would expire in a few days, and of the whole 
in a few weeks. In consequence of this, he 
was ordered into his district, to comply with that 
requisition, and to carry back with him, and to dis- 
charge near their homes, those of his troops, the 
period of whose service was within a short time of 
being ended. Colonel Lilliard's regiment, which 
consisted of about eight hundred, and whose term 
of service would not expire in less than four weeks, 
was retained, to assist in defending the present 
post, and in keeping open the communication with 
Deposit, until the expected reenforcements should 
arrive from Tennessee. 

Meantime the cavalry and mounted riflemen, 
who, under an express stipulation to return and 
complete the campaign, had been permitted to re- 
tire into the settlements, had, at the time appointed 
re-assembled in the neighbourhood of Huntsville. 
But, catching the infection of discontent from the 
infantry, on their return march, they began now 
to clamour with equal earnestness for a discharge. 
The cavalry insisted that they were as well entitled 
to it as the infantry ; and the riflemen, that they 
could not be held in service after the 24th, that 
being three months from the time they had been 



.8 LIFE OF GENERAL JACE&GN, 

mustered ; and that, as that day was so near at 
hand, it was wholly useless to advance any farther. 
General Coffee, who was confined at Huntsville 
by severe indisposition, employed all the means 
which his debilitated strength would allow, to re- 
move the dangerous impressions they had so readily 
imbibed, and to reclaim them to a sense of honour 
and of duty ; but all his efforts proved unavailing. 
He immediately ordered his brigade to head-quar 
ters : they had proceeded as far as Ditto's Ferry, 
when the greater part of them, refusing to cross 
the river, returned in a tumultuous manner, conv 
mitting on the route innumerable irregularities 
which there was no force sufficient to restrain 
Not more than seven hundred of the brigade could 
be gotten over ; who, having- marched to Deposit, 
were directed to be halted, until further orders 
could be obtained from General Jackson. At this 
place they committed the wildest extravagances ; 
profusely wasting the public grain, which, with 
much difficulty and labour, had been collected for 
the purpose of the campaign ; and indulging in 
every species of excess. Whilst thus rioting^ 
they continued to clamour vociferously for their 
discharge. General Coffee, finding his utmost ef- 
forts ineffectual to restrain or to quiet them, wrote 
to Jackson, acquainting him with their conduct and 
demands, and enclosing a petition that had been 
addressed to him by the rifle reg v iment. In his 
letter he says, "I am of opinion the sooner they 
can be gotten clear of the better ; they are con- 
suming the forage that will be necessary for others, 
and I am satisfied they will do no more good. I 
have told them their petition would be submitted 
to. you, who would decide upon it L» the shswVest 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSO.V 79 

possible time." This was truly disagreeable news 
to the general. On the brigade of Coffee he had 
placed great reliance, and, from the pledges it had 
given him, entertained no fears but that it would 
return and act with him, as soon as he should be 
ready to proceed. 

The signers of that address, observes the gen- 
eral, commence by saying, " that jealousy is pre- 
vailing in our camp, with respect to the understand- 
ing between themselves and the government rela- 
tive to the service required of them ; and, believing 
it to be its policy to act fairly, are of opinion that 
a full explanation of their case will have a good 
effect in promoting the cause in which they are 
engaged." 

There was but a single course left ; to point 
them to the pledge they had given, and appeal di- 
rectly to their honour, believing that if this were 
unsuccessful, there was "nothing by which he 
could hope to hold them. 1 ' 

Jackson had just received a letter from the gov- 
ernor of Tennessee, in answer to his frequent and 
pressing inquiries, as to the disposition which should 
be made of the volunteers. It recommended what 
had already, from necessity, been done ; to dis- 
miss — not discharge them, because the latter was 
not in the power of either of them : — nor was 
their dismission to be given because founded in 
right ; but because, under existing circumstances, 
their presence could not prove beneficial, but highly 
injurious. To induce them contentedly to remain, 
the governor had suggested but one argument, 
which had not already been unsuccessfully attempt- 
ed ; " that it was very doubtful if the government 
would pay them for the services they had already 



80 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

rendered, if abandoned without her authority." 
The letter was therefore enclosed for their in- 
spection, accompanied with these remarks: — "I 
have just received a letter from Governor Elount, 
which I hasten to transmit, that you may avail 
yourselves of whatever benefits and privileges it 
holds out. You will perceive, that he does not 
consider he has any power to discharge you : — 
neither have I: — but you have my permission to 
retire from the service, if you are still desirous, 
and are prepared to risk the consequences." 

These letters, so far from answering- the desired 
end, had a contrary effect The governor's was 
no sooner read, than they eagerly laid hold of it 
to support the resolution they had already formed ; 
and, without further ceremony or delay, abandoned 
the campaign, with their colonel at their head, who, 
so far from having endeavoured to reconcile them, 
is believed, by secret artifices, to have fomented 
their discontents. 

So genera] was the dissatisfaction of this brig- 
ade, and with such longing anxiety did they indulge 
the hope of a speedy return to their homes, that 
their impatience did not permit them to wait the 
return of the messenger from head-quarters, lie- 
fore an answer could reach General Coffee, they 
had broken up their encampment at Deposit, re- 
crossed the river, and proceeded four miles beyond 
Huntsvilie. On receiving it, Coffee had the bri^- 
ade drawn up in solid column, and the letters, 
together with the pledge they had given, read to 
tnem ; after which the Reverend Mr. Blackburn 
endeavoured in an eloquent speech, in which he 
pointed out the ruinous consequences that were to 
be apprehended, if they persisted m their present 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 81 

purpose, to recall them to a sense of duty, and of 
honour : but they had formed their resolution too 
steadfastly, and had gone too extravagant lengths, 
to be influenced by the letter, the pledge, or the 
speech. As to the pledge, a few said they had 
not authorized it to be made ; others, th;it, as the 
general had not returned an immediate acceptance, 
they did not consider themselves bound by it; but 
the greater part candidly acknowledged, that they 
stood committed, and were without any justification 
for their present conduct. Thus, in a tumultuous 
manner, they abandoned their post and their duty, 
and, committing innumerable extravagances, re 
garch'ss alike of law and decency, continued their 
route to their respective homes. 



82 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 



CHAPTER IV. 

Discontents of the militia. — Governor Blount recommends an abm 
donment of i'iie service. — Jackson's reply to his letter. — The 
governor lakes measures for bringing out a sufficient force. — 
Conduct of General Roberts. — His brigade retires from sev 
trice.— Lieutenant Kearletj. — Arrival of additional" forces. — 
Arrest of officers. — Expedition against the Indians. — His 
motives. — Batik of Emuckfaiv. — General Coffee proceeds to 
destroy tlie enemy's fortifications. — Second battle of Emuek- 
faw. — Troops commeiwe their return march. — Ambuscade 
formed by tlie Indians. — Battle of Enotichopco. 

But, whilst these unfortunate events were tran- 
spiring in the rear, matters were far from wearing 
an encouraging aspect at head-quarters, The 
brigade of West Tennessee militia, consisting of 
only about six hundred, imitating the evil examples 
of others, began to turn their attention towards 
home. Believing that three months constituted the 
tour of duty contemplated in tlie act under which 
they engaged, they insisted that it would termin- 
ate on the 4th of the ensuing month. It is true, 
the act had not defined the term of their engage- 
ment ; but it had specified the object of calling 
them out, viz. to subdue the Indians ; — and, as that 
object had not yet been attained, it was believed, 
that, at present, they were not entitled to a dis- 
charge. These troops, although raised by the 
state authorities, had been, by the particular re- 
commendation of the legislature, received into the 
service of the general government, under the act 
of congress authorizing the president to call out a 
hundred thousand militia, to serve for six months, 
unless by his own order they should be previously 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 83 

dismissed. The militia of East Tennessee, having 
been specially mustered into service for three 
months, would, of course, be entitled to claim their 
dismissal at the expiration of that period ; hence 
Colonel Lilliard's regiment, which constituted more 
than one half the present force at head-quarters, 
would be lost to the service on the 14th of the 
next month. 

With the failure of General Cocke, to bring into 
the field the number and description of troops which 
he had been ordered to raise under the requisition 
of the president, as well as with the temper and 
demands of those who were in service, Jack- 
son kept the governor of Tennessee correctly ad- 
vised, and omitted no opportunity of entreating 
him, in the most pressing manner, to take the 
earliest measures for supplying by draft, or volun- 
tary enlistment, the present deficiency, as well as 
that which, from every appearance, was soon to be 
expected. To these solicitations, he had now re- 
ceived the governor's answer, who ctated, that, 
having given an order to bring into the field fifteen 
hundred of the detached militia, as was required by 
the secretary of war, and a thousand volunteers, 
under the act of the legislature of Tennessee of the 
24th September, he did not feel himself authorized 
to grant any new mandate, although satisfied that 
the first had not been complied with ; that he view- 
ed the further prosecution of the campaign, at- 
tended as it was with so many embarrassments, a3 
a fruitless endeavour ; and concluded by recom- 
mending, as advisable, to withdraw the troops into 
the settlements, and suspend all active operations 
until the general government should provide rnoro 
effectual means for conducting it to a favourable 



84 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

result. Jackson, far from having any intention to 
yield to this advice, determined to oppose it. Still, 
however, he was greatly concerned at the view the 
chief magistrate of his state seemed to take of a 
question of such vital importance ; and immediately 
proceeded to unfold himself fully, and to suggest 
the course, which, he believed, on the present oc- 
casion, it behooved them both to pursue : pointing 
out the ruinous consequences that might be expected 
to result from the adoption of the measure he had 
undertaken to recommend : — he continues : 

" Had your wish, that I should discharge a port 
of my force, and retire, with the residue, into the 
settlements, assumed the form of a positive order, 
it might have furnished me some apology for pur- 
suing such a course ; but by no means a full justi- 
fication. As you would have no power to give 
such an order, I could not be inculpable in obeying, 
with my eyes open to the fatal consequences that 
would attend it. But a bare recommendation, 
founded, as I am satisfied it must be, on the artful 
suggestions of those fire-side patriots, who seek, in 
a failure of the expedition, an excuse for their own 
supineness, — and upon the misrepresentations of the 
discontented from the army, who wish it to be be- 
lieved, that the difficulties which overcame their pat- 
riotism are wholly insurmountable — would afford me 
but a feeble shield against the reproaches of my 
country or my conscience. Believe me, my respected 
friend, the remarks I make proceed from the purest 
personal regard. If you would preserve your 
reputation, or that of the state over which you 
preside, you must take a straight-forward, determin- 
ed course ; regardless of the applause or censure 
of the populace, and of the forebodings of that 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 85 

dastardly and designing crew, who, at a time like 
this, may be expected to clamour continually in 
vour ears. The very wretches who now beset 
you with evil counsel, will be the first, should the 
measures which they recommend eventuate in dis- 
aster, to call down imprecations en your head, and 
load you with reproaches. Your country is in dan- 
ger : — apply its resources to its defence ! Can any 
course be more plain ? Do you, my friend, at such 
a moment as the present, sit with your arms folded, 
and your heart at ease, waiting a solution of your 
iloubts, and a definition of your powers ? Do you 
wait for special instructions from the secretary at 
war, which it is impossible for you to receive in 
time for the danger that threatens ? How did the 
venerable Shelby act, under similar circumstances ; 
or, rather, under circumstances by no means so 
critical ? Did he wait for orders to do what every 
man of sense knew — what every patriot felt — to be 
right ? He did not ; and yet how highly and justly 
did the government extol his manly and energetic 
conduct ! and how dear has his name become to 
every friend of his country ! 

" You say, that an order to bring the necessary 
quota of men into the field has been given, and that 
of course your power ceases ; and, although you 
are made sensible that the order has been wholly 
neglected, you can take no measure to remedy the 
omission. Widely different, indeed, is my opinion. 
I consider it your imperious duty, when the men, 
called for by your authority, founded upon that of 
the government., are known not to be in the field, 
to see that they be brought there ; and to take im- 
mediate measures with the officer, who, charged 
with the execution of your order, omits or neglects 
8 



86 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

to do it. As the executive of the state, it is your 
duty to see that the full quota of troops be con- 
stantly kept "n the field, for the time they have 
been required. You are responsible to the govern- 
ment ; your officer to you. Of what avail is it, to 
give an order, if it be never executed, and may be 
disobeyed with impunity ? Is it by empty man- 
dates that we can hope to conquer our enemies, 
and save our defenceless frontiers from butchery 
and devastation ? Believe me, my valued friend, 
there are times when it is highly criminal to shrink 
from responsibility, or scruple aDout the exercise 
of our powers. There are times when we must 
disregard punctilious etiquette, and think only of 
serving our country. What is really our present 
situation ? The enemy we have been sent to sub- 
due may be said, if we stop at this, to be only ex- 
asperated. The commander in chief, General Pinck- 
ney, who supposes me by this time prepared for 
renewed operations, has ordered me to advance 
and form a junction with the Georgia army; and, 
upon the expectation that I will do so, are all his 
arrangements formed for the prosecution of the 
campaign. Will it do to defeat his plans, and jeop- 
ardize the safety of the Georgia army ? The gen- 
eral government, too, believe, and have a right to 
believe, that we have now not less than five thou- 
sand men in the heart of the enemy's country ; and 
on this opinion are all their calculations bottomed ; 
and must they all be frustrated, and I become the 
instrument by which it is done ? God forbid ! 

"You advise me to discharge or dismiss from ser- 
vice, until the will of the president can be known, 
such portion of the militia as have rendered three 
months' service. This advice astonishes me, even 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 87 

more than the former. I have no such discretiona- 
ry power ; and if I had, it would be impolitic and 
ruinous to exercise it. I believed the militia, who 
were not specially received for a shorter period, 
were engaged for six months, unless the objects of 
the expedition should be sooner attained ; and in 
this opinion I was greatly strengthened by your 
letter of the loth, in which you say, when answer- 
ing my inquiry upon this subject, ' the militia are 
detached for six months' service ;' nor did I know 
or suppose, you had a different opinion, until the 
arrival of your last letter. This opinion must, I 
suppose, agreeably to your request, be made known 
to General Roberts's brigade, and then the conse- 
quences are not difficult to be foreseen. Every 
man belonjxin<j to it will abandon me on the 4th of 
next month ; nor shall I have the means of pre- 
venting it, but by the application of force, which, 
under such circumstances, I shall not be at liberty 
to use. I have laboured hard to reconcile these men 
to a continuance in service until they could be hon- 
ourably discharged, and had hoped I had, in a great 
measure, succeeded ; but your opinion, operating 
with their own prejudices, will give a sanction to 
their conduct, and render useless any further at- 
tempts. The., ./ill go; but I can neither discharge 
nor dismiss them. Shall I be told, that, as they will 
go, it may as well be peaceably permitted ? Can that 
be any good reason why I should do an unautho- 
rized act? Is it a good reason -why I should vio- 
late the order of my superior officer, and evince a 
willingness to defeat the "purposes of my govern- 
ment ? And wherein does the ' sound policy' of 
the measures that have been recommended consist? 
or in what way are they 'likely to pron ote the 



88 LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. 

public good ?' Is it sound policy to abandon a con- 
quest thus far made, and deliver up to havoc, or add 
to the number of our enemies, those friendly Creeks 
and Cherokees, who, relying on our protection, have 
espoused our cause, and aided us with their arms ? 
Is it good policy to turn loose upon our defenceless 
frontiers five thousand exasperated savages, to reek 
their hands once more in the blood of our citizens ? 
What ! retrograde under such circumstances ! I 
will perish first. No ; I will do my duty : I will 
hold the posts I have established, until ordered to 
abandon them by the commanding general, or die 
in the struggle ; — long since have I determined not 
to seek the preservation of life at the sacrifice of 
reputation. 

" But our frontiers, it seems, are to be defended ; 
and by whom ? By the very force that is now re 
commended to be dismissed : for I am first told to 
retire into the settlements and protect the frontiers, 
next, to discharge my troops ; and then, that no 
measures can be taken for raising others. No, my 
friend, if troops be given me, it is not by loitering 
on the frontiers that I will seek to give protection 
— they are to be defended, if defended at all, in a 
very different manner ; — by carrying the war into 
the heart of the enemy's country. All other hopes 
of defence are more visionary than dreams. What, 
then, is to be done ? I'll tell you what. You have 
only to act with the energy and decision the crisis 
demands, and all will be well. Send me a force 
eno-aired for six months, and I will answer for the 
result ; — but withhold it, and all is lost, — the repu- 
tation of the state, and your's, and mine along with 
it." 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 89 

This letter had considerable effect with the gov- 
ernor. On receiving it, he immediately determined 
on a course of greater efficiency, and ordered from 
the second division twenty-five hundred of the mi- 
litia, for a tour of three months, to rendezvous at 
Fayetteville on the 28th of January. The com- 
mand was given to Brigadier-General Johnston, with 
orders to proceed, without delay, to Fort Strother. 
lie instructed General Cocke to execute the order 
he had received from Jackson, for raising from his 
division his required quota of troops, and to bring 
them to the field as early as possible. 

General Roberts, who had been ordered back to 
supply the deficiencies in his brigade, returned on 
the 27th with one hundred and ninety-one men, 
mustered for three months. Having halted them 
a few miles in rear of the camp, he proceeded 
thither himself, to learn of the commanding general, 

© © t 

who 4 her the troops he had brought on would be re- 
ceived for the term they had stipulated, as they 
were unwilling to advance farther until this point 
was settled. Jackson answered, that although he 
greatly preferred they should be engaged for six 
months, yet he had no wish to alter any engagement 
made with General Roberts, and would gladly re- 
ceive them for that period. Notwithstanding this 
assurance, for some unknown cause, they suddenlv 
formed the determination to return home, without 
gaining even a sight of the camp. To the miscon- 
duct of their general, was it justly to be attributed. 
The careless inditference with which General 
Roberts had first treated the affair had subsided : 
and his fears took the alarm on receiving from Gen- 
eral Jackson an order "to parade immediately before 
the fort the men he had reported as brought into 
S* 



90 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

the field. lie came forward to excuse what had 
happened, and to solicit permission to go in pursuit 
of the refugees. Overtaking them, at the distance 
of twenty miles, he endeavoured, in a very gentle 
manner, to soothe their discontents, and prevail on 
them to return ; hut, having heen discharged, they 
laughed at the folly of his errand. Unable to 
effect his object, he remained with them during the 
night; and in the morning set out for camp, and his 
new recruits lor home. Dn arriving at head-quar- 
ters, he ascribed his failure to the practices of cer- 
tain officers, whom he named, and who, he said, 
had stirred up a spirit of mutiny and desertion 
among the men to such a degree, that all his efforts 
to retain them had proved unavailing. Jackson, 
who could not view this incident with the same 
indifference that Roberts did, immediately issued an 
order, directing him to proceed, forthwith, in pur- 
suit of the deserters, and have them brought back. 
In the execution of this order, he was commanded 
to call to his aid any troops in the United Stat 
service within the county of Madison, or in the ^tate 
of Tennessee, and to exert all his power and au- 
thority, as a military officer, within his own brigade , 
and, in the event he should not be able to collect 
a sufficient force to march them safely to head- 
quarters, to conline them in jails, and make a re- 
port thereof without delay. This order was ac- 
companied with an assurance, that all who should 
return willingly to their duty, except those officers 
who had been reported as the instigators, would bo 
pardoned. Many of the men, and several of the 
officers, who had been charged as encouraging the 
-evolt, learning the nature of the proceedings which 
were about to be enforced against, them, returned of 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 91 

th^ir own accord to camp; and concurred in as- 
cribing their lute misconduct entirely to tlicir gen- 
eral. He was afterwards arrested, and, upon this 
and other charges exhibited against him, sentenced 
by a court-martial to be cashiered. 

The day arrived, when that portion of the milit . 
which had continued in - e, claimed to be 

charged; and insisted that, whether th iven 

to them of not, they would abandon the campa 
mid return home. Jackson believed them not en- 
titled to i>, and hence, that he had no rij 
it; but, since Governor Blount had said differently, 
and his opinion had been promulgated, h< it to 

be improper thai he should attempt the exerc ae of 
authority to del tin them. Nevertheless, belies 
it to be bis duty to keep them, he issued a gei 
order, commanding :-.3 in the service of the 

United States, under I tmand, not to l< 

encampment without his ••■ ritten permission, ui 
the penalties annexed, by the rules and artich - 
war. to the crimi irtion. This was accom- 

panied by an address, in which they were exhorted, 
by all those motives srhich he supposed would be 
most likely to have any influence, to remain at 
their posts until tbey could be legally discharged. 
Neither the order nor the address availed any thing. 
On the morning of the 4th of January, the officer 
of the day reported, that 0:1 visiting his guard, half 
r ten o'clock, he found neither the officer, (Lieu- 
tenant Kearley,) nor any of the sentinels at their 
posts. Upon this information, General Jackson or- 
dered the arrest of Kearley, who refused to sur- 
render his sword, alleging it should protect him to 
Tennessee : that he was a free man, and not subject 
to the orders of General Jackson, or any body else 



92 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

This being made known to the general, he issued, 
immediately, this order to the adjutant-general : 
" You will forthwith cause the guards to parade, 
with Captain Gordon's company of spies, and arrest 
Lieutenant Kearley ; and, in case you shall be re- 
sisted in the execution of this order, you are com- 
manded to oppose force to force, and arrest him at 
all hazards. Spare the effusion of blood, if possi- 
ble ; but mutiny must and shall be put down." 
Colonel Sitler, with the guards and Gordon's com- 
pany, immediately proceeded in search, and found 
him at the head of his company, on the lines, which 
were formed, and about to be marched off. lie 
was ordered to halt, but refused. The adjutant 
general, finding it necessary, directed the guards 
to stop him ; and again demanded his sword, which 
he ag^ain refused to deliver. The guards wore com- 
manded to fire on him if he did not immediately de- 
liver it, and had already cocked their guns. At 
this order, the lieutenant cocked his, and his men 
followed the example. General Jackson, informed 
of what was passing, had hastened to the scene, 
and, arriving at this moment, personally demanded 
of Kearley his sword, which he still obstinately re 
fused to deliver. Incensed at his conduct, an<f 
viewing the example as too dangerous to be passed 
in silence, he snatched a pistol from his holster 
and was already levelling it at the breast of Kear 
ley, when the adjutant-general, interposing between 
them, urged him to surrender his sword. At this 
moment, a friend of the lieutenant, who was present, 
drew it from the scabbard, and presented it to Colo- 
nel Sitler, who refused to receive it. It was then 
returned to Kearley, who now delivered it, and was 
placed under guard. During this crisis, both par- 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 93 

ties remained with their arms ready, and prepared 
for firing ; and a scene of bloodshed was narrowly 
escaped. 

Kearley, confined, and placed under guard, be- 
came exceedingly penitent, and supplicated the 
general for a pardon. He stated that the absence 
of the sentinels from their post had been owing to 
the advice of the brigade-major ; that not delivering 
his sword, when first demanded, was attributable to 
the influence of others, who had persuaded him it 
was not his duty to do so ; that he had afterwards 
come to the determination to surrender himself, but 
was dissuaded by those who assured him it would 
oe a sacrifice of character, and that they would 
6hare, and protect him, in the hour of danger ; why 
no still resisted, in the presence of the general, 
tvas, that, being at the head of his company, and 
iiaving undertaken to carry them home, he was re- 
strained, at the moment, by a false idea of honour. 
This application was aided by certificates of several 
of the most respectable officers then in camp, at- 
testing his previously uniform good behaviour, '^J 
expressing a belief that his late misconduct was 
wholly to be attributed to the interference of others. 
Influenced by these reasons, the general thought 
proper to order his liberation, and his sword to be 
restored. Never was a man more sensible of the 
favour he had received, or more devoted to his 
benefactor, than he afterwards became. 

While these proceedings were taking place, the 
rest of the brigade, with the exception of Captain 
Willis's company, and twenty-nine of his men, con- 
tinued tlioir march towards home, leaving behind, 
for the further prosecution of tbe campaign, and 
the defence of Fort Strother, a single regiment of 



94 » LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

miiitia, whose term of service was within a few 
weeks of expiring ; two small companies of spies, 
and one of artillery. 

Difficulties were constantly pressing ; and whilst 
one moment gave birth to expectation, the next 
served but to destroy it. Jackson had been ad- 
vised, and was buoyed by the hope, that adequate 
numbers would shortly come to his relief; and, un- 
til this could be accomplished, it was desirable to 
retain those who then were with him. to give to 
his posts increased protection. Whilst measures 
were adopting in Tennessee to effect this fully, 
about a thousand volunteers were moving out, to 
preserve an appearance of opposition, and keep se- 
cure what had been already gained. With this 
force, added to what he already had, if in his power 
to keep them, he believed he would be able to ad- 
vance on the enemy, make a diversion in favour of 
the Georgia army, and obtain other important advan- 
tages. With this view, he had addressed this regi- 
moiit, and brought before thern such considerations 
as might be supposed calculated to excite a soldier's 
ardour. But they almost unanimously refused to re- 
main beyond the period of their engagement. 

As nothing but an unnecessary consumption of 
supplies was now to be expected from detaining 
troops so spiritless, orders were given for taking up 
the line of march to Fort Armstrong, on the 10th ; 
whence they were directed to proceed to Knox- 
ville, and receive orders for their discharge. 

Meantime, the volunteers, lately raised, had ar- 
rived at Huntsville, where they had been directed 
to remain until sufficient supplies could be had at 
head-quarters. Could they have proceeded direct- 
ly on, they would have reached the general suffi 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 95 

ciently early to have enabled him to proceed against 
the enemy before the period at which the remnant 
of his troops would have been entitled to a dis- 
charge. His exertions to have in readiness the 
arrangements necessary to the accomplishment of 
this end, had been indefatigable. General Cocke 
had been directed to give instructions to his quar- 
ter-master, to forward to Fort Strother such pro- 
visions as should arrive at Fort Armstrong ; to pro- 
ceed thence to Ross's, and make arrangements for 
the speedy transportation, from that place to De- 
posit, of all the bread stuff which the contractor 
had been required to collect at that depot : and to 
have procured a competent supply cf that article, 
as well for the troops then in the field, as for those 
which had been ordered to be raised. The more 
certainly to effect this object, he had, on the 20th 
of December, despatched his own quarter-master 
and adjutant-general to Deposit and Huntsville, to 
push on what should be collected at those places ; 
and had, at the same time, despatched one of 
the sub-contractors from camp, with directions to 
examine the situation of the different depots ; and, 
if found insufficient to meet the requisition lie had 
made, to proceed immediately to the settlements 
in Tennessee, and procure the necessary supplies. 
To the contractors themselves he had addressed 
orders and exhortations almost without number ; 
and, indeed, from every source, and through every 
channel that the hope of relief could be discerned, 
had he directed his exertions to obtain it. 

On the second of January, Colonel Carroll and 
Mr. Blackburn arrived at head-quarters, to receive 
instructions how the volunteers should be organized 
and brought up. Having reported their strength to 



( d6 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

be eight hundred and fifty, they were directed to 
have them formed, as had been desired, into two 
regiments, under officers of their own choice ; and 
an order was put into their hands, requiring Gene- 
ral Coffee, who was then at Huntsville, to march 
them to Fort Strother, by the 10th instant. That 
officer, whose feelings had been sufficiently liar- 
rowed by the late conduct and defection of hi3 
brigade, learning that those troops were unwilling 
for him to have command of them, had expressed a 
wish to General Jackson that it might not be as- 
signed him ; in consequence of which, and their own 
request, the latter had determined, after their arri- 
val at his camp, that there should be no intermediate 
commander over them, between their colonels and 
himself. With this proposed arrangement, those 
gentlemen had been instructed to make the troops 
acquainted ; and were particularly requested to use 
their best endeavours to remove any erroneous im- 
pressions that might have been made upon their 
minds. 

General Coffee, having received the instructions 
of General Jackson, immediately gave orders to 
Colonels Perkins and Higgins, who had been chosen 
to the command of the two regiments, to march di- 
rectly for head-quarters. To his entire astonish- 
ment, both these officers refused to obey ; alleg- 
ing, in a written statement they made, that General 
Coffee had no right to exercise command over them, 
and that they would disregard any he might at- 
tempt to claim. One of them not only refused obe- 
dience to the order, but even went so far as to re 
fuse to return it, or permit the brigade-inspector tG 
take a copy; thereby placing it out of his power to 
make it known to the rest of the brigade. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 97 

Unwilling as Coffee was to create any additional 
perplexities to the commanding general, lie felt 
himself constrained to demand the arrest of those 
officers. 

Notwithstanding the weighty considerations 
which had been urged to produce an expeditious 
movement, it was not until the 13th that those oiii- 
cers, with their regiments, reached head-quarters. 
Finding they were likely to be noticed, on charges 
which their better-informed friends advised would 
not only deprive them of command, but involve 
them in disgrace, they immediately made an hon- 
ourable concession, in which they pleaded igno- 
rance of military duty, as an excuse for their mis- 
conduct. 

The whole effective force consisted, at this time, 
by the reports, of little more than nine hundred 
men. 

Being addressed by the general, on the loth, 
the mounted troops commenced their march to We- 
liogee Creek, three miles from the fort. Jackson, 
with his staff, and the artillery company, joined 
them next morning, and continued the line of march 
to Talladega, where about two hundred friendly 
Indians, Cherokees and Creeks, badly armed, and 
much discouraged at the weakness of his force, 
were added to his numbers, without increasing 
much his strength. Seldom, perhaps, has there 
been an expedition undertaken, fraught with great- 
er peril. Nine hundred new recruits, entirely un- 
acquainted with the duties of the field, were to be 
marched into the heart of an enemy's country, 
without a single hope of escape, but from victory, 
and that victory not to be expected, but from the 

ivisccit precaution, and most determined bravery, 
o 



98 LIFE OF GExVERAL JACKSON. 

Although so obviously pregnant with danger, to 
march was the only alternative that could be adopt- 
ed. No ether could afford a diversion favourable 
to General Floyd, who was advancing with the ar- 
my from Georgia, or give favourable results to the 
campaign, without which it must soon have been 
abandoned, for want of men to prosecute it. An- 
other reason rendered such a movement indispen- 
sable. The officer commanding at Fort Armstrong 
had received intelligence, that the warriors from 
fourteen or fifteen towns on the Taliapoosa were 
about to unite their forces, and attack that place : 
which, for the want of a sufficient garrison, was in 
a defenceless situation. Of this General Jackson 
had been advised. The present movement, hazard- 
ous as it was, was indispensable, and could alone 
prevent the execution of such a purpose. On reach- 
ing Talladega, he received a letter from the com- 
mandant at Fort Armstrong, confirmatory of the 
first information. One also from Geaeral Pinckney, 
by express, arrived, advising him that Floyd, on the 
I Oth instant, would move from Coweta, and, in ten 
days thereafter, establish a position at Tuckabat- 
chee ; and recommended, if his force would allow 
him to do no more, that he should advance against 
such of the enemy's towns as might be within con- 
venient distance ; that, by having his troops em- 
ployed, he might keep disaffection from his ranks, 
and be, at the same time, serviceably engaged in 
harassing the enemy. If, therefore, he could have 
hesitated before, there was now no longer any room 
to do so. By an expeditious movement, he might 
6ave Fort Armstrong, and render an essential ser- 
vice to General Floyd, by detaching a part of the 
clans destined to proceed against him. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 99 

As he progressed on the march, a want of the 
necessary knowledge in his pilots, of subordination 
in his troops, and skill in the officers who com- 
manded them, became more and more apparent ; 
but still their ardour to meet the enemy was not 
abated. 

On the evening of the 21st, sensible, from the 
trails he had fallen in upon, fresh, and converging 
to a point, that he must be in the neighbourhood of 
the enemy, Jackson encamped his little army in a 
hollow square, on an eligible site, upon the eminen- 
ces of Emuckfaw, sent out his spies, posted his 
pickets, doubled his sentinels, and made the neces- 
sary arrangements to guard against attack. About 
midnight the spies came in and reported they had 
discovered a large encampment of Indians, at about 
three miles distance, who, from their whooping and 
dancing, were no doubt apprized of his arrival. 
Every thing was ready for their reception, if they 
meditated an attack, or to pursue in the morning, 
if they did not. At the dawn of day, the alarm- 
guns of our sentinels, succeeded by shrieks and 
savage yells, announced their presence. They 
commenced a furious assault on the left flank, com- 
manded by Colonel Higgins, which was met with 
great firmness. General Coffee, and Colonels Car- 
roll and Sitler, instantly repaired to the point of 
attack, and, by example and exhortation, encouraged 
the men to a performance of their duty. The ac- 
tion raged for half an hour ; the brunt of which 
being against the left wing, it had become consid- 
erably weakened. It being now sufficiently light 
to ascertain the position of the enemy, and Cap- 
tain Ferril's company having reenforced the left 
wing, the whole charge;!, under General Coffee, 



100 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

and a route immediately ensued. The friendly 
Indians joining in the pursuit, they were chased 
about two miles, with considerable loss. We had 
five killed, and twenty wounded. Until it became 
light enough to discern objects, our troops derived 
considerable advantage from their camp fires ; these 
laving been placed at some distance without the 
encampment, afforded a decided superiority in a 
night attack, by enabling those within to fire with 
great accuracy on an approaching enemy, whilst 
thev themselves remained invisible. 

at 

The pursuit being over, Jackson detached Cof- 
fee, with the Indians, and four hundred men, to 
destroy the enemy's encampment, unless he should 
find it too strongly fortified ; in which event, he 
was to give information immediately, and wait the 
arrival of the artillery. Coffee, having recon- 
noitred this position, and found it too strong to be 
assailed with the force he commanded, returned to 
camp. He had not returned more than half an 
hour, when a severe fire was made upon the pickets, 
posted on the right, accompanied with prodigious 
yelling. General Coffee proceeded to turn the left 
flank of the assailants. This detachment being 
taken from different corps, he placed himself at 
their head, and moved briskly forward. Those in 
the rear, availing themselves of this circumstance, 
continued to drop off, one by one, without his 
knowledge, until the whole number left with him 
did not exceed fifty. It was fortunate that the 
force of the enemy he had first to attack was not 
greater. He found them occupying a ridge of 
open pine timber, covered with low underwood, 
which afforded them many opportunities for con- 
cealment. To deprive them of this advantage, 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 101 

Coffee ordered his men to dismount and charge 
them. This order was promptly obeyed, and some 
loss sustained in its execution ; the general himself 
was wounded through the body, and his aid, Major 
Donelson, killed by a ball through the head ; — three 
of his men also fell. The enemy, driven, back by 
the charge, took refuge on the margin of a creek, 
covered with reeds, where they lay concealed. 

The saveges, having intended the attack on the 
right as a feint, now, with their main force, which 
had been concealed, made a violent onset on our 
left line, which they hoped to find in disorder. 
General Jackson, however, who had apprehended 
their design, was prepared to meet it: this line 
had been ordered to remain firm in its position ; 
and, when the first gun was heard in that quarter, 
he repaired thither in person, and strengthened it 
by additional forces. The first advance of the 
enemy was sustained with firmness, and opposed 
with great gallantry. The battle was now main- 
tained on the part of the assailants, by quick and 
irregular firing, from behind logs, trees, shrubbery, 
and whatever could afford concealment : behind 
these, prostrating themselves after firing, and re- 
loading, they would rise and again discharge their 
guns. After sustaining their fire in this way for 
some time, a charge, to dislodge them from their 
position, was ordered : and the whcle line under 
Colonel Carroll, by a most brilliant and steady 
movement, threw them into confusion, and they fled 
precipitately away. 

In the mean time, General Coffee had been en 
deavouring to drive the savages on the right from 
the fastnesses into which they had retired : but, rind- 
ing that this could not be done without hazard and 
9 * 



102 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSOX. 

loss, he began to retire towards the place where 
he had first dismounted. This expedient, designed 
for stratagem, produced the desired effect. The 
enemy, inspirited by the movement, presuming it 
a retreat, forsook their hiding-places, and rapidly 
advanced upon him. That officer immediately 
availed himself of the opportunity thus afforded 
of contending with them again on equal terms ; 
and a severe conflict commenced, and continued 
about an hour, in which the loss on both sides was 
nearly equal. At this critical juncture, when seve- 
ral of the detachments had been killed, many 
wounded, and the whole greatly exhausted with 
fatigue, the dispersion of the enemy being effect- 
ed on the left, a reenforcement was despatched by 
General Jackson, which, making its appearance on 
the enemy's left flank, put an end to the contest. 
General Coffee, although severely wounded, still 
continued the fight, and, availing himself of the ar- 
rival of this additional strength, instantly ordered a 
charge ; when the enemy, foreseeing their doom 
fled in consternation, and were pursued with dread- 
ful slaughter. It is believed that at this place 
none escaped. Thus drew to a close a day of 
almost continual fighting.* 

Haviiiir buried the dead, and dressed the wound- 
ed, preparations were made to guard against an at- 



* The Indians had designed their plan of operations well, 
though the execution did not succeed. It was intended to bring 
on the attack at three different points, at the same lime ; hut a 
partv of the Chealegrans, one of the tribes which compose the 
{ Jreek confederacy, "who had been ordered to assail the right ex- 
tremity of our front line, instead of doing i>o, thought it more pru- 
dent to proceed to their villages, happy to have passed, undis- 
covered, the point they had been ordered to attack. But for this, 
the contest might have terminated less advantageously, perhaps, 
disastrously. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 103 

tack bv night, by erecting a breast-work of timber 
around the encampment; a measure the more 
necessary, as the spirits of our troops, most of 
whom had never before been in collision with an 
enemy, were observed visibly to flag, towards the 
evening. Indeed, during the night, it was with 
the utmost difficulty the sentinels could be main- 
tained at their posts, who, expecting every minute 
the appearance of the enemy, would, at the least 
noise, fire and run in. The enemy, however, whose 
spies were around our encampment all night, did 
not think proper to attack us in this position, and 
the morning broke without disturbance. The next 
day, General Jackson began to think of returning 
to the Ten Islands. Many reasons concurred to 
render such a measure proper. 

Jackson ordered litters to be formed for the 
transportation of the sick and wounded, and other 
necessary preparations to be made for a return 
march. Every thing being ready, it was com- 
menced at ten o'clock the next morning, and con- 
tinued without interruption until nearly night, 
when the army was encamped a quarter of a mile 
on the south side of Enotichopco Creek, in the di- 
rection to the ford. 

As it was evident the enemy had been in pursuit 
during the day, a breast-work was thrown up, with 
the utmost expedition, and arrangements made to 
repel their attempts, should they meditate an at- 
tack, in the course of the night, or on the succeed- 
ing morninor. From a knowledge that thev had 
been hanonnof on his rear, during the march of the 
preceding day, the general was led to conjecture 
that an ambuscade had been prepared, and that an 
attack would be made on him whilst crossing the 



104 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

creek in his front. Near the crossing place was 
a deep ravine, formed by the projection of two 
hills, overgrown with thick shrubbery and brown 
sedge, which afforded every convenience for con- 
cealment. Along this route, the army, in going out, 
had passed ; Jackson determined to take a different 
route ; he secretly despatched, early next morning, 
a few pioneers, to designate another crossing place 
below. A suitable one was discovered, about six 
hundred yards from the old one ; and thither the 
general row led his army; having, previously to 
commencing the march, formed his columns, and 
the front and rear guards, that he might be in an 
attitude for defence. 

A beautiful slope of open woodland led down 
to the newly discovered ford, where, except im- 
mediately on the margin of the creek, which was 
covered with a few reeds, there was nothing to ob- 
struct the view. The front guards, and part of 
the columns, had passed ; the wounded were also 
over, and the artillery just entering the creek, 
when an alarm-gun was heard in the rear. The 
Indians, unexpectedly finding the route was chang- 
ed, quitted the defile, where they had expected to 
commence the assault, and advanced upon a com- 
pany, under the command of Captain Russell, which 
marched in the rear. Though assailed by supe- 
rior numbers, it returned the fire, and gradually 
retired, until it reached the rear guard, who, ac- 
cording to express instructions given, were, in the 
event of an attack, to face about, and act as the 
advance ; whilst the right and left columns shouid 
be turned en their pivots, so as completely to loop 
the enemy, and render his destruction sure. The 
right column of the rear guard was commanded by 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 103 

Colonel Perkins, the left, by Lieutenant-Colonel 
Stump, and the centre column by Colonel Carroll. 
Jackson was just passing the stream when the firing 
and yelling commenced. Having instructed his 
aid-de-camp to form a line for the protection of the 
wounded, who were but a short distance in ad 
vance, and afterwards to turn the left column, he 
himself proceeded to the right, for a similar pur- 
nose. What was his astonishment, when, resting 
in the hope of certain victory, he beheld the right 
and left columns of the rear guard, after a feeble 
resistance, precipitately give way, bringing with 
them confusion and dismay, and entirely obstruct- 
ing the passage, over which the principal strength 
of the army was to be re-crossed ! This shameful 
flight was well nigh being attended with the most 
fatal consequences ; which were alone averted by 
the determined bravery of a few. Nearly the 
whole of the centre column had followed the ex- 
ample of the other two, and precipitated themselves 
into the creek ; not more than twenty remained to 
oppose the violence of the first assault. The ar- 
tillery company, commanded by Lieutenant Arm- 
strong, composed cf young men of the first families, 
who had volunteered their services at the com- 
mencement of the campaign, formed with their 
muskets before the piece of ordnance ihey had, and 
hastily dragged it from the creek to an eminence, 
from which they could play to advantage. Here 
an obstinate conflict ensued; the enemy endeav- 
ouring to charge and take it, whi!st this company 
formed with their muskets, and resolutely defended 
These young men, the few who remained with 
Colonel Carroll, and the gallant Captain Q,uaries- 
who fell at their bead, with Russell's spies, not ex- 



106 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

ceeding m the whole one hundred, maintained, with 
t)ic utmost firmness, a contest, for many minutes 
against a force five times greater than their own 
and checked the advance of the foe. The brave 
Lieutenant Armstrong fell at the side of his piece 
by a wound in the groin, and exclaimed, as lit 
lay, " Some of you must perish ; but don't lose the 
gun." By his side fell, mortally wounded, his as- 
sociate and friend, Bird Evans, and the gallant 
Captain Hamilton ; who, having been abandoned by 
his men, at Fort Strother, with his two brothers and 
his aged father, had attached himself to the artillery 
company, as a private, and, in that capacity, showed 
how well be deserved to command by the fidelity 
with which he obeyed. Perilous as the hour was, 
this little heroic band evinced themselves cool and 
collected as they were brave in battle. In the 
confusion of the moment, the rammer and pricker 
of the cannon could not be disengaged from the 
carriage ; in this situation, and at such a time, the 
invention of most young soldiers might have failed . 
but, nothing fearing, Craven Jackson and Constan 
tine Perkins drove home the cartridges with a 
musket, and with the ramrod prepared them for 
the match. In the mean time, while the conflict 
was thus unequally sustained. General Jackson and 
his staff had been enabled, by great exertions, to 
restore something like order, from confusion. The 
columns were again formed, and put in motion : 
and small detachments had been sent across the 
creek to support the little band that there main- 
tained their ground. The enemy, perceiving a 
strong force advancing, and being warmly assailed 
on their left flank by Captain Gordon, at the head 
of his company of spies, were stricken with alarm, 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 107 

PTid fled away, leaving behind their blankets, and 
whatever was likely to retard their flight. De- 
caclunonts were ordered on the pursuit, who, in a 
chase of two miles, destroyed many, and wholly 
dispersed them. 

In despite of the active exertions made by Gene- 
ral Jackson to restore order, they were, for some 
time, unavailing. In addition to the assistance re- 
seived from his staff, he derived much from the aid 
>f General Coffee. That officer, in consequence 
of the wound which he had received at Emuckfaw, 
/tad, the day before, been carried in a litter. From 
die apprehensions indulged, that an attack would 
probably be made upon them that morning, he had 
proceeded from the encampment on horseback, and 
aided, during the action, with his usual deliberate 
firmness. Indeed, all the officers of his brigade 
rendered manifest, now, the value of experience. 
This was not a moment for rures of fancied eti- 
quette. The very men, who, a little time before, 
would have disdained advice, and spurned an ordei 
from any but their own commanders, did not scru- 
ole, amidst the peril that surrounded them, to be 
regulated by those who seemed to be so much bet- 
ter qualified for extricating them from their present 
danger. The hospital surgeon, Dr. Shelby, ap- 
peared in the fight, and rendered important military 
services. The adjutant-general, S:*tler, hastened 
across the creek in the early part of the action, 
-.0 the artillery company, for which he felt all the 
esprit de corps, having been once attached to it; 
and there remained, supporting them in their duties, 
and participating in their dangers. Captain Gor- 
don, too, contributed greatly to dispel the peril of 
the moment, by his active sally on the left flank of 



108 LIFE OF GENERAL JACRSOIf. 

the savages. Of the general himself, it is scaicelj 
necessary to remark, that, but for him, every thing- 
must have gone to ruin. On him all hopes were 
rested. In that moment of confusion, he was the 
rallying point, even for the spirits of the brave 
Firm and energetic, and, at the same time, perfect- 
ly self-possessed, his example and authority alike 
contributed to arrest the flying, and give confidence 
to those who maintained their ground. Cowards 
forgot their panic, and fronted danger, when they 
heard his voice and beheld his manner ; and the 
brave would have formed round his body a ram- 
part with their own. In the midst of showers of 
balls, of which he seemed unmindful, he was seen 
performing the duties of the subordinate officers, 
rallying the alarmed, halting them in their flight, 
forming his columns, and inspiriting them by his 
example. An army suddenly dismayed, and thrown 
into confusion, was thus happily rescued from a de- 
struction which lately appeared inevitable. Our 
total loss, in the several engagements, on the 22d, 
and this day, was only twenty killed, and seventy- 
five wounded, some of whom, however, afterwards 
died. The loss of the enemy cannot be accurately 
stated. The bodies of one hundred and eighty- 
nine of their warriors were found ; this, however, 
may be considered as greatly below the real num- 
ber ; nor can their wounded be even conjectured. 
The greatest slaughter was in the pursuit. Scat- 
tered through the heights and hollows, many of the 
wounded escaped, and many of the killed were not 
ascertained. It is certain, however, as was after- 
wards disclosed by prisoners, that considerably 
more than two hundred of those who, on this oc- 
casion, went out to battle, never returned ; but 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 109 

those who did return, unwilling it should be known 
that so many were killed, feeling it might dispirit 
the nation, endeavoured to have it believed, and so 
represented it, that they had proceeded on some 
distant expedition, and would be for some time ab- 
sent. 

The army encamped, on the night of the 26th, 
within three miles of Fort Strother. Thus termi 
nated an expedition replete with peril, but attended 
with effects highly beneficial. Fort Armstrong was 
•elieved ; General Floyd enabled to gain a victory 
tt Autossee, where he would most probably have 
/net defeat ; a considerable portion of the enemy's 
oest forces had been destroyed ; and an end put 
Co the hopes they had founded on previous delays. 
Discontent had been kept from the ranks ; the 
troops had been beneficially employed : and inac 
tivity, the bane of every army, had been avoided. 
10 



110 UFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 



CHAPTER V. 

The volunteers are discharged.-Neu, troops °r™e-Exw 
Hon of a soldier, and the effect produced. -Want tf^RgJ;- 
Mutiny icitk the East Tennessee brigade -Genera '^Mson 
marrhes against Vie Indians. -Battle ot Tohopeka.-Rtu, w to 
FonWitiams.-Exvedition to Hoithlexcalee ; Us failure and 
the cause*.— Forms a junction utih the Georgia troops, and pro 
cerds Lothe Hickory Ground. -Indians sue for peace.- Weather- 
ford surrenders himself -Arrival of General P™*™"? 
iead-quarters.— Tennessee troops are ordered to oe man.Ud 
home, and discharged from service. 

The troops having reached the post whence 
they had set out, the general determined to dis- 
charge them. The information from Tennessee 
<vas, that there would soon be in the field a consid- 
erable force, enlisted for a period sufficient to effect 
a termination of the Indian war. He was deshous 
of having every thing in readiness by the time oi 
their arrival, that they might be carried without 
delay into active service. Detaining his late vol- 
unteers, therefore, a short time, to complete boats 
for the transportation of his camp equipage and 
provisions down the Coosa, he directed them to be 
marched home, and there to be honourably dis- 
missed. The further service of his artillery com- 
pany was also dispensed with. His parting inter- 
view with them was interesting and affecting. 

A letter from Jackson to Governor Blount, added 
to his own sense of the importance of the crisis, 
had induced him to issue an order on the 3d, direct- 
ing twenty-five hundred of the militia of the second 
division to be detached, organized, and equipped, 
in conformity to an act of congress of the 6th 01 



LIFE OF GEAERAL JACKSON. Ill 

April, 1812. These were to perform a tour of 
three months, to be computed from the time of 
rendezvous, appointed to he on the 28th instant. 
He had also required General Cocke to bring into 
the field, under the requisition of the secretary of 
war, the quota he had been instructed to raise. 
This officer, who had hitlierto created so many 
obstacles, still appeared to desire nothing moie 
ardently than a failure of the campaign. Although 
many difficulties had been feigned in the execution 
of the order directed to him, he was enabled to 
muster into service, from his div sion, about two 
thousand men. These, however, as well as those 
called out from West Tennessee, were but indif- 
ferently armed. 

The thirty-ninth regiment, under Colonel Wil- 
liams, had also received orders to proceed to Jack- 
son's head-quarters, and act under his command in 
the prosecution of the war. It arrived on the 5th 
or 6th of the month, about six hundred strong 
Most of the men were badly armed ; this evil, 
however ; was shortly afterwards remedied. 

The quarter-masters and contractors were already 
actively engaged, and endeavouring to procure provi- 
sions and the transportations for the army. The fail- 
ures, in regard to former enterprises, are to be ascrib- 
ed to these two departments ; to the constant endeav- 
our of the contractors to procure provisions at a re- 
duced price, in order to enhance their profits ; and to 
fears entertained, lest, if they should lay in any large 
supply, it might spoil or waste on their hands. The 
inconveniences in the quarter-master's department, 
were, indeed, less chargeable to the incumbents 
than to the causes which they could not control ; 
for, to the extreme ruggedness of the way over 



112 LIFE OF GENERAL JAcrfSON 

which wagons had to pass, was to be added the 
real difficulty of obtaining a sufficient number on 
the frontiers. 

About the middle of the month, Jackson ordered 
the troops to advance, end form a union at head- 
quarters, then at Fort Strother. Greatly to his 
surprise, he soon after learned that the contractor 
from East Tennessee had again failed to comply 
with his engagement, notwithstanding the ample 
means which he possessed, and the full time allowed 
him for that purpose. The troops, however, agree- 
ably to the order received, proceeded on their 
march. Those from the second division, under 
Brigadier-General Johnston, arrived on the 14th; 
which, added to the force under General Doherty, 
from East Tennessee, constituted about five thou- 
sand effectives. Composed, as this army was, of 
troops entirely raw, it was not to be expected that 
any thing short of the greatest firmness in its 
officers could restrain that course of conduct and 
disorder, which had hitherto so unhappily prevailed. 

The execution of a private, (John Woods,) who 
had been sentenced by a court-martial, on a charge 
of mutiny, produced, at this time, great excitement 
and the most salutary effects. That mutinous 
spirit, which had so frequently broken into the 
camp, and for a while suspended all active opera- 
tions, remained to be cheeked. A lit occasion was 
now at hand to evince, that although militia, when 
at their fire-sides at home, might boast an exemp- 
tion from control, yet in the field those high no- 
tions were to be abandoned, and subordination ob- 
served. Painful as it was to the feelings of the 
general, he viewed it as a sacrifice essential to the 
preservation of good order, and left the sentence of 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. Ill 

the court to be inflicted. The execution was pro- 
ductive of the happiest effects ; order was pro- 
duced, and that opinion which had so long prevailed, 
that a militia-man was privileged, and for no offence 
"iable to suffer death, was, from that moment, 
abandoned, and a stricter obedience than had been 
practised afterwards characterized the army. 

Nothing v/as wanting now to put the troops in 
motion, and actively to prosecute the war, but the 
arrival of necessary supplies. Remonstrance, en- 
treaty, and threats, had long since been used and 
exhausted. Every mean had been resorted to, to 
impress on the minds of the contractors the ne- 
cessity ol urging forward in faithful discharge of 
their duty : but the same indifference and neglect 
were still persisted in. To ward off the effects 
of such great evils — evils which he foresaw must 
again eventuate in discontent and revolt — Jack 
eon resolved to pursue a different course, and nr> 
longer depend on persons who had so frequently 
disappointed him, and whose only object was the 
acquirement of wealth. He accordingly despatched 
messengers to the nearest settlements, with direc- 
tions to purchase provisions, at whatever price they 
could be procured. This course, to these incum- 
bents on the nation, afforded an argument infinitely 
stronger than any to which he had before resorted. 
Unexpectedly assailed in a way they had not pre- 
viously thought of, by being held and made liable 
for the amount of the purchases, which by their 
neglect was rendered necessary, they exerted 
themselves in discharge of a duty they had hith- 
erto too shamefully neglected. Every expedient 
had been practised to urge them to a compliance with 
the obligations they were under to their govero 
10* 



114 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

merit ; until the present, none had proved effectual. 
In one of his letters, about this time, the general 
remarks, — " I have no doubt but a combination lias 
been formed to defeat the objects of the campaign, 
but the contractor ought to have recollected, that 
he had disappointed and starved my army once ; 
and now, in return, it shall be amply provided for 
at his expense. At this point he was to have de- 
livered the rations — and, whatever they may cost, at 
tills place he will be required to pay: any price 
that will ensure their delivery, I have directed to 
be given." The supplying an army by contractors, 
he had often objected to as highly exceptionable 
and dangerous. His monitor, on this subject, wa? 
his own experience. Disappointment, mutiny, and 
abandonment by his troops, when in the full career 
of success, and an unnecessarily protracted cam- 
paign, were among the evils already experienced, 
and which he desired, if possible, might be in future 
avoided. The difficulties, the perplexities, he had 
met, and the constant dissatisfaction which had 
rendered his troops inefficient, were wholly to be 
attributed to those, who, in disregard of the public 
good, had looked alone to their own immediate 
benefit. It was high time that the feelings and 
interest of such men should be disregarded, and 
a sense of duty enforced, by that sort of appeal 
which sordid minds best can understand — an ap- 
peal to profit and the purse. 

Under these and other circumstances, which 
seemed to involve the most serious consequences, 
the general had but little time for either repose or 
quietness. Every thing was moving in opposition 
to his wishes. The East Tennessee brigade, under 
the command of Doherty, having been instructed 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 115 

to halt, until adequate supplies should be received 
at head-quarters, had already manifested many 
symptoms of revolt, and was with difficulty re- 
strained from abandoning the field, and returning 
immediately home. Added to their own discon- 
tents, pains had been taken by a personage high in 
authority to scatter dissension, and to persuade 
them that they had been improperly called out, and 
without sufficient authority ; that the draft was 
illegal, and that they were under no necessity of 
remaining. On the morning that General Doherty 
was about to proceed to head-quarters, he was 
astonished to hear the drums beating up for volun 
teers to abandon his camp and return home. Not- 
withstanding all his efforts to prevent this injurious 
measure, one hundred and eighty deserted. His 
surprise was still greater, on receiving information 
in which he confided, that instructions by Major- 
General Cocke had been given, that, in the event 
any number of the troops should be marched back, 
he would take upon himself to discharge them 
from all responsibility on their return to Knoxville 
The general had previously appeared at the camp 
of Doherty, and, by different means, attempted to 
excite mutiny and disaffection among the troops. 
As a reason for being unwilling to assume the com- 
mand, and go with them to the field, he stated, that 
they would be placed in a situation which he dis- 
liked to think of, and one which his feelings would 
not enable him to witness ; that they were about to 
be placed under the command of General Jackson, 
who would impose on them the severest trials, and 
\vhere they would have to encounter every imagina- 
ble privation and suffering. He represented, that 
at head-quarters there was not a sufficiency of pro- 



116 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

visions on hancTto last five days ; nor was there a 
probability that there would happen any change of 
circumstances for the better ; that, should they 
once be placed in the power of Jackson, such was 
his nature and disposition, that, with the regular 
force under his command, he would compel them to 
serve whatever length of time he pleased. Doherty, 
who was a brigadier in the first division, was at a loss 
to know how he should proceed with his own major- 
general, who, having thus obtruded himself into his 
camp, was endeavouring to excite mutiny and re- 
volt : he accordingly despatched an express to 
head-quarters to give information to General Jack- 
son of what w T as passing in his camp. The mes- 
senger arrived, and, in return, received an order to 
Doherty, commanding him, peremptorily, to seize, 
and send under guard to Fort Strother, every 
officer, without regard to his rank, who should be 
found, in any manner, attempting to incite his army 
to mutiny. General Cocke, apprehending what 
was ofoino* on, or obtaining intelligence, retired be- 
fore the order arrived, and thus escaped the pun- 
ishment due to so aggravated an oiFence. 

About this time, Colonel Dyer was despatched 
with six hundred men, with orders to proceed to the 
head of the Black Warrior, and ascertain if any 
force of the Indians was imbodied in that quarter, 
and disperse them. This detachment, having pro 
ceeded eight days through the heights along the 
Cahawba, had fallen in with a trail the enemy hat* 
passed, stretching eastwardly, and followed it fo, 
some distance. Apprehending that the army might 
be on the eve of departing from Fort Strother, and 
being unable to obtain any certain information of 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. H7 

the savages, he desisted from fche pursuit, and 
returned to camp. 

That there might be no troops in the Held in a 
situation not to be serviceable, and as supplies were 
an important consideration, orders were given the 
brigadiers to dismiss from the ranks every invalid, 
and all who were not well armed. 

General Jackson, at length, by constant and un- 
remitted exertions, obtained such supplies as he 
believed would be necessary to enable him to 
proceed. On the 14th he commenced his march, 
and, crossing the river, arrived on the 21st at the 
mouth of Cedar Creek, which had been previously 
selected for the establishment of a fort.* At this 
place it became necessary to delay a day or two, 
and await the coming of the provision boats, which 
were descending - the Coosa. 

On the 22d of January, the day of the battle of 
Emuckfaw, General Coffee, as has been already 
stated, had been detached to destroy the Indian 
encampment on the Tallapoosa: having recon- 
noitred their position, and believing them too 
strongly posted to be advantageously assailed by 
the force which he then commanded, he had re- 
tired without making the attempt. The position 
they had chosen was at a bend of the Tallapoosa, 
called by the Indians Tohopeka, which, interpreted 
into our language, means Horse-Shoe, not far from 
New Youcka, and near the Oakfusky villages. 
Fortified bv nature and the skill of the savages, 
no other conjecture was entertained, than that at this 
place was intended a defence of the most deter- 
mined kind. Learning that the Indians were still 
imbodied here, Jackson resolved to make a descent 



* Fort Williams. 



118 LIFE OF GEXERAL JACKSOJf. 

on it. and destroy the confederacy ; thence, return- 
ing to Fort Williams for provisions, to urge forward 
to the Hickory Ground, where he hoped he should 
be able finally to terminate the war. 

On the 24th, leaving a sufficient force undo? 
Brigadier-General Johnston for the protection of 
the post, with eight days' provisions, he left Fort 
Williams for the Tallapoosa, by the way of Emuck- 
faw. The whole force now with him amounted 
to less than three thousand effective men ; being 
considerably reduced by the necessity of leaving 
behind him detachments for garrisons at the differ- 
ent forts. At ten o'clock on the morning of the 
27th, after a march of fifty-two miles, he reached 
the village Tohopeka. The enemy, having gained 
intelligence of his approach, had collected in con- 
siderable numbers, with a view to give him battle. 
The warriors from the adjacent towns, Oakfnsky, 
Hillabee, Eufalee, and New Youcka, amounting to 
a thousand or twelve hundred, were here collected, 
and waiting his approach. They could have select- 
ed no place better calculated for defence ; for, in- 
dependent of the advantages bestowed on it by 
nature, their own exertions had greatly contributed 
to its strength. Surrounded almost entirely by the 
river, it was accessible only by a narrow neck of 
land, of three hundred and fifty yards width, which 
they had taken much pains to secure, by placing 
large timbers and trunks of trees horizontally on 
each other, leaving but a single place of entrance. 
From a double row of port-holes formed in it, they 
were enabled to give complete direction to their 
fire, whilst they lay in perfect security behind. 

General Coffee, at the head of the mounted in- 
fantry and friendly Indians, had been despatched 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON, 



119 



early in the morning from camp, with orders to 
gain the southern bank of the river, encircle the 
bend, and make some feint, or manoeuvring, to 
divert the enemy from the point where the attack 
was intended principally to be waged. He was 
particularly instructed so to arrange the force under 
/lis command, that the savages might not escape by 
passing to the opposite side in their canoes, with 
which, it was represented, the whole shore was 
lined. Jackson, with the rest of the army, pro- 
ceeded to take a position in front of the breast- 
work. Having planted his cannon on an eminence s 
about two hundred yards from the front of the 
enemy's line, with a view to break down his 
defence, a brisk fire commenced. The musketry 
and rifles, which occupied a nearer position, were 
used as the Indians occasionally showed themselves 
from behind their works. The artillery was well 
served by Major Bradford, and the fire kept up for 
some minutes without making any impression ; time, 
however, was gained for complete readiness. The 
signals having now announced that General Coffee 
had reached in safety his point of destination, on 
the opposite side of the river, had formed his line, 
and was ready to act, the order was given to 
charge. " Never were troops more eager to be 
led on than were both regulars and militia. They 
had been waiting wwi impatience for the order, 
and hailed it with acclamations. The spirit that 
animated them was a sure augury of the success 
chat was to follow." Between them there was no 
difference ; both advanced with the intrepidity and 
firmness of veteran soldiers. The thirty-ninth 
regiment, led on by their commander, Colonel Wil- 
liams, and the brave but ill-fated Major Montgomery 



120 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

and the militia under the command of Colone. 
Bunch, moved forward amidst a destructive fire 
that continually poured upon them, and were pres- 
ently at the rampart. Here an obstinate and 
destructive conflict ensued, each contending for 
the port-holes, on different sides. Many of the 
enemy's balls were welded between the muskets 
and bayonets of our soldiers. At this moment, 
Major Montgomery, leaping on the wall, called to 
his men to mount and follow him ; he had scarcely 
spoken, when, shot through the head, he fell lifeless 
to the ground. Our troops eagerly followed the 
example he had set, and scaled their ramparts. 
Finding it no longer tenable, the savages aban- 
doned their position, and, retiring from their works, 
concealed themselves amidst the brush and timber 
that lay thickly scattered over the peninsula ; 
whence they kept up a galling fire, until they were 
again forced back. Driven to despair, not knowing 
whither to flee, and resolving not to surrender, 
they saw no other alternative, than an effort to 
effect their escape, by passing in their canoes to 
the opposite bank of the river ; from this they were, 
however, prevented, by perceiving that a part of 
the army already lined the opposite shore. Under 
these circumstances, the remaining warriors, who 
yet survived the severity of the conflict, betaking 
themselves to flight, leaped aown the banks, and 
concealed themselves along the cliffs and steeps^ 
which were covered by the trees. Many had betaken 
themselves to the west angle of their lme of de- 
fence, where, under protection of heaps of brush, 
a spirited fire was kept up upon those of our troops 
who had gained their line, and those who were 
advancing on the outer side. From these secreted 



LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. 121 

place3 they would fire and disappear. Genera] 
Jackson, perceiving that farther resistance must 
involve them in utter destruction, and entertaining 
a desire that they should yield a contest which now 
evidently was a hopeless one, ordered the interpre- 
ter to advance with a flag, under cover of come 
trees which stood in front, until he should reach a 
position sufficiently near to be heard. He did so, 
and, having arrived within forty yards of the spot 
where the Indians were concealed, in an audible 
voice, and in their own language, addressed them ; 
told them of the folly of further resistance, and 
that he was commanded by General Jackson to say, 
that, if disposed to surrender, they should be re- 
ceived and treated as prisoners. They waited 
patiently until he had finished, and heard what he 
had to say ; — a pause ensued ; and, at the moment 
when he was expecting to receive an answer, and 
to learn that a surrender would be at once made, a 
fire was opened upon the flag, and the interpreter 
severely wounded in the breast. Finding they 
would not yield, orders were given to dislodge them. 
To accomplish this, the artillery was Srst turned 
against them ; but, being from its size incapable of 
producing any effect, a charge was made, in which 
several valuable lives were lost ; il however suc- 
ceeded, and the enemy were dislodged from their 
covert place on the right angle of their line of 
defence. Lighted torches were now thrown down 
the steeps, which, communicating with the brush 
and trees, and setting them on fire, drove them 
from their hiding-places. Still did they refuse to 
surrender, and still maintained the conflict. Thus 
the carnage continued until night separated the 
combatants, when the few misguided savages, who 
11 



122 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

had avoided the havoc and slaughter of the (fay, 
were enabled, through the darkness of the night, 
to make their escape. 

Whilst the attack was thus waged in front of 
the line, the friendly Indians in General Coffee's 
detachment, under the command of Colonel Mor- 
gan, with Captain Russell's company of spies, were 
effecting much ; and, no doubt, to the course pur- 
sued by them, on the opposite side, was greatiy 
owing the facility with which the breast-work was 
scaled, and its possession obtained. The village 
stood on the margin of the river, and on that part 
of the peninsula most remote from the fortification. 
At the line were all their warriors collected. Seve- 
ral of the Cherokees and Russell's spies having 
swum across, unobserved, and procured their ca- 
noes, a considerable number passed over, entered 
the town, and fired it. No sooner was this dis- 
covered, than their attention was divided, and drawn 
to the protection of a point where they had not ap- 
prehended an attack. Thus assailed from an un- 
expected quarter — a force in their rear, and another. 
still stronger, advancing on their front — the invading 
army was°afforded a much easier and less hazardous 
opportunity of succeeding in the assault and secur- 
ing the victory. 

This battle gave a death-blow to their hopes ; nor 
did they venture, afterwards, to make a stand. 
From their fastness in the woods they had tried 
their strength, agreeably to their accustomed mode 
of warfare! in ambuscade, had brought on the at- 
tack ; and, in ail, failure and disaster had been me*. 
None of the advantages incident on surprise, and 
for which the red men of our forests have been 
always so characterized, had they been able to ob- 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 123 

tain. The continual defeats they had received 
weTe, doubtless, the reason of their having so 
strongly fortified this place, where they had deter- 
mined to perish or to be victorious. Few escaped 
the carnage. Of the killed, many by their friends 
were thrown into the river, whilst the battle raged ; 
many, in endeavouring- to pi^ss it, were sunk by 
the steady fire of Coffee's brigade ; and five hun- 
dred and fifty-seven were left dead on the ground. 
Among the number of the slain were three of 
Jieir prophets. Decorated in a most fantastic man- 
ner — the plumage of various birds about their heads 
and shoulders — with savage grimaces, and horrid 
contortions of the body, they danced and howled 
their cantations to the sun. Their dependants al- 
ready believed a communion with Heaven sure, 
which, moved by entreaty, and their offered homage, 
would aid them in the conflict, and give a triumph 
to their arms. Fear had no influence ; and when 
they beheld our army approaching, and already 
scaling their line of defence, even then, far 
from being dispirited, hope survived, and victory 
was still anticipated. Monohoe, one of the most 
considerable of their inspired ones, and who had 
cheered and kept alive the broken spirit of the na- 
tion by his pretended divinations, fell, mortally 
wounded, by a cannon shot in the mouth, while ear- 
nestly engaged in his incantations. 

Three hundred prisoners were taken, most of 
whom were women and children. That so few 
warriors should have sought and obtained safety, by 
appealing to the clemency of the victors, to persons 
acquainted with the mode of Indian warfare, will 
not appear a matter of surprise. It seldom happens 
that they extend or solicit quarter : faithless them- 



124 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

selves, they place no reliance on the faith of others ; 
and, when overcome in battle, seek no other pro- 
tection than retreat affords. Another cause for it 
may be found in a reason already given ; the attack, 
by a detachment of General Cocke's division, on 
the Hillabee clans, who were assailed and put to the 
sword, at a moment when, having asked peace at 
discretion, they were expecting it to be given. 
This misfortune had alone been occasioned by a 
want of concert in the divisions of our army ; but 
it was past, and with it was gone, on the part of the 
savages, all confidence in our integrity and humani- 
ty ; and they looked and trusted for safety now to 
nothing but their own bravery. In this contest 
they maintained resistance, fighting and firing from 
their covert places, long after the hope either of 
success or escape was at an end, and after the pro- 
posal had been submitted to spare the further use- 
less waste of blood. A few, who had lain quiet, 
and concealed under the cliffs, survived the severity 
of the conflict, and effected their retreat under 
cover of the night. 

Our loss was small, when compared with that of 
the enemy ; the whole estimate, including the 
friendly and Cherokee Indians, was but fifty-five 
killed, and one hundred and forty-six wounded. Of 
the former was Major Montgomery, a brave and en- 
lerprising young officer, of the thirty-ninth regi- 
ment, and Lieutenants Moulton and Sornerville, who 
fell early in the action. 

The object of the present visit being answered, 
the general concluded to return to Fort Williams. 
Having 9unk his dead in the river, to prevent their 
being scalped by the savages, and made the neces- 
sary arrangements for carrying off his wounded, he 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 125 

commenced his return march for the fort, and in a 
few days reached it in safety.* 

Understanding that the enemy was imbodied, in 
considerable numbers, at Hoithlewalee, a town situ- 
ated not far from the Hickory Ground, he was anx- 
ious to re-commence his operations as early as 
possible, that the advantages he had gained, and 
the impression he had made, might not be lost. The 
forces under his command, from sickness, the loss 
which had been sustained in the late battle, and 
numerous discharges given, had been too much re- 
duced in strength, to permit him to act as efficiently 
as the importance of the crisis required. It was 
desirable, therefore, to effect a junction with the 
southern army as speedily as possible, that, from an 
increase and concentration of his numbers, greater 
efficiency might be had. The North Carolina 
troops, under the command of General Graham, an 
experienced officer of the revolutionary war, and 
those of Georgia, under Colonel Milton, were as- 
certained to be somewhere south of the Tallapoosa, 
and conld be at no great distance. To unite with 
them was an event greatly desired. He had re 
ceived from General Pincknev strong assurances 
„hat all complaints would be at an end, as soon as his 
and the southern division could unite. No time was 
to be lost in effecting a purpose so essential. Gene- 
ral Jackson accordingly determined to leave his sick 
and wounded, and the fort, to the care and com- 
mand of Brigadier Johnston, and to set out again 

* Sulking them in the river, in preference to burying- diem, 
tvas adopted from the consideration, that those of our troops, who 
lad previously fallen, had been raised, stripped, and scalped. 
Many of the Indians at Tchopeka were found in the clothes of 
those who had been Killed and bi •ied at Enmckfa' v. 

11* 



126 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

for the Tallapoosa. On the 7th, with all his dispo- 
sable force, he commenced his march, with the 
double view of effecting a union with the army be- 
low, and of attacking on his route the enemy's 
force which were collected at Hoithlewalee. His 
greatest difficulty was in conveying to Colonel Mil- 
ton intelligence of hia intended operations. The 
friendly Indians, who, from their knowledge of the 
country, had been always selected as expresses, 
were with difficulty to be prevailed on now for any 
such undertaking. Believing their nation to be 
imbodied in larger numbers than any which had 
been yet encountered, and that, confiding in their 
strength, they would be better enabled to go forth, 
searching and spying through the surrounding 
country, they at once concluded that any enterprise 
of this kind would be attended with too great peril 
and danger, and the difficulty of eluding observa- 
tion too much increased, for them to adventure. 
Tins circumstance prevented the arrangement of 
such measures as were best calculated to bring the 
different divisions to act in general concert. The 
necessity, however, of such co-operation, was too 
important, at this moment, not to be effected, if it 
were possible. 

Having at length succeeded in procuring confi- 
dential messengers, Jackson addressed Colonel Mil- 
ton, and advised him of his intended movement. 
To guard against any accident or failure that might 
happen, different expresses were despatched, by 
different routes. He informed him, that, with eight 
days' provisions, and a force of about two thousand 
men, he should, on the 7th, take up the line of march, 
and proceed directly for Hoithlewalee ; which he ex- 
pected certainly to reach and attack on the 11th. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 127 

The point of destination, owing to the rain, he 
was not able to reach until the 13th. This delay, 
unavoidable, gave the Indians an opportunity of 
fleeing from the threatened danger. On arriving 
at an inconsiderable stream which skirted the town, 
it was so swollen as to be rendered impassable 
The savages, gaining intelligence of an approach 
that was thus unavoidably retarded, were enabled 
to effect an escape by passing the river in then 
canoes, and gaining the opposite shore. Had Col- 
onel Milton fortunately made a different disposition 
of the troops under his command, and, by guarding 
the southern bank of the river, co-operated with 
the Tennessee division, their escape would have 
been prevented, and the whole force, collected, 
would either have been destroyed or made prison- 
ers. Although Jackson, in his letter of the 5th, 
had given intelligence that he would reach the 
enemy on the 11th; and, when prevented by high 
waters and rotten roads, had again notified him 
that he would certainly arrive and commence the 
attack by the morning of the 13th, and urged him 
to guard the south bank of the Tallapoosa, still 
was the request disregarded, and the savages per- 
mitted to escape. Learning they were abandoning 
their position, and seeking safety in flight, Jackson 
filed to the right, and, overtaking the rear of the 
fugitives, succeeded in making twenty-five prison- 
ers. At this time, nothing was heard of Colone, 
Milton ; but on the same day, having marched about 
five miles from his encampment at Port Decatur, 
and approached within four of Hoithlewalee, he, 
the next morning, gave notice of an intention to 
attack the village that day ; at this moment the in 
habitants and warriors ha-d BH and the town was 



128 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

occupied and partly destroyed by a detachment 
from Jackson's army, that had succeeded in passing 
the creek. 

The Georgia army being so near at hand, was a 
source of some satisfaction, although the escape of 
the enemy had rendered their presence of less im- 
portance than it otherwise would have been. The 
stock of provisions, with which the march had been 
commenced from Fort Williams, was now nearly 
exhausted. Assurances, however, having been so 
repeatedly given, that abundant supplies would be 
had on uniting with the southern army, all uneasi- 
ness upon the subject was at once dispelled. Col 
onel Milton was immediately applied to, the situa- 
tion of the armv disclosed, and such aid as he could 
extend solicited. He returned an answer to the 
general's demand, observing, he had sent provisions 
for the friendly Indians, and would, the next day, 
lend some for the remainder of the troops ; but felt 
himself under no obligation to furnish any. Jack- 
eon, satisfied of its being in his power to relieve 
him, and that this apparent unwillingness did not, 
and could not, proceed from any scarcity in his 
camp, assumed a higher ground, and, instead of ask- 
ing assistance, now demanded it. He stated that 
his men were destitute of supplies, and that he had 
been apprized of it ; and concluded by ordering, 
not requesting, him to send five thousand rations 
immediately, for present relief; and for himself and 
the forces under his command to join him at Hoith- 
lewalee by ten o'clock the next day. « This order," 
he remarked, "must be obeyed without hesitation." 
— It was obeyed. The next day, a junction having 
been elfected, the necessary steps were taken to 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 129 

bring down the provisions deposited at Fort Deca- 
tur, and, for the first time since the commence- 
ment of the Creek war, inconveniences for the 
want of supplies, and an apprehension of suffering-, 
were removed. 

Appearances seemed now to warrant the belief, 
that the war would not be of much longer continu- 
ance ; the principal chiefs of the Hickory Ground 
tribes were coming-in, making professions of friend- 
ship, and giving- assurances of their being no longer 
disposed to continue hostilities. The general had 
been met, on his late march, by a flag from these 
clans, giving information of their disposition to be 
at peace. In return they received this answer : — 
that those of the war party, who were desirous of 
putting an end to the contest, and of becoming 
friendly, should evince their intention by retiring 
m the rear of the army, and settling themselves to 
the north of Fort Williams ; that no other proof 
than this, of their pacific dispositions, would be re- 
ceived. Fourteen chiefs of these tribes had arrived, 
to furnish still further evidence of their desire for 
peace. They assured the general that their old 
king, Fous-hatchee, was anxious to be permitted to 
visit him in person, and was then on his way, with 
his followers, to settle above Fort Williams, agree- 
ably to the information he had received by the flag 
which had lately returned to him. 

Detachments were scouring the country to the 
south, with orders to break up any collection of the 
enemy that might be heard of in convenient dis- 
tance. The main body was prepared to advance to 
the junction of the two rivers, where, until now, it 
had been expected the Indians would make a last 



130 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

and desperate stand.* Every thing was in readi- 
ness to proceed on the march, when it was an 
nounced to the general, that Colonel Milton's brig- 
ade, which had lately united with him, was not in 
a situation to move. During the previous night 
some of his wagon horses having strayed off, per- 
sons had been sent in pursuit, and were expected 
shortly to return with them ; when, it was reported, 
he would be ready to take up the line of march. 
To Jackson, this was a reason for delaying the ope- 
rations of an army, which as yet he had never 
learned, and by which he had never been influenced. 
He had, indeed, been frequently made to halt, 
though from very different causes ; from murmurs, 
discontents and starvation in his camp. He replied 
to the colonel's want of preparation, by telling him, 
that, in the progress of his own difficulties, he had 
discovered a very excellent mode of expediting 
wagons, even without horses ; and that, if he would 
detail him twenty men from his brigade, for every 
wagon deficient in horses, he would guaranty their 
safe arrival at their place of destination. Rather 
than subject his men to such drudgery, he preferred 
to dismount some of his dragoons, and thus avoided 
the necessity of halting the army until his lost 
teams should arrive. 

The army continued its march without gaining 



* The Hickory Ground, or that part of the Creek nation lying 
in the forks, near where the Coosa and Tallapoosa unite, was 
called l>y the Indians Holy Ground, from a tradition and belief 
prevailing among them, that it never had been pressed by the 
toot of a white man. Acting' under the influence of their pro- 
phets, and a religious fanaticism, it was supposed they woula 
make greater exertions to defend this than any other portion o* 
<Jie;r country 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACK50IV. 131 

intelligence of any imbodied forces of tlie enemy ; 
and, without the happening of any thing of im- 
portance, reached old Toulossee Fort, on the Coosa 
river, not far from the confluence, at which another 
was determined to be erected, to be called Fort 
Jackson, after the commanding general. Here the 
rivers approach within one hundred poles of each 
other, and, again diverging, unite six miles below. 
At this place, the chiefs of the different tribes were 
daily arriving, and offering to submit on any terms. 
They all concurred in their statements, that those 
of the hostile party, who were still opposed to ask- 
ing for peace, had fled from the nation, and sought 
refuge along the coast of Florida, and in Pensacola. 
General Jackson renewed the declaration, that 
they could find safety in no other way than by re- 
pairing to the section of the country pointed out 
to them, where they might be quiet and free of any 
sort of molestation. 

To put their friendly professions, which he dis- 
trusted, at once to the test, he directed them to 
bring Weatherford to his camp, confined, that he 
might be dealt with as he deserved. He was one 
of the first chiefs of the nation, and had been a 
principal actor in the butchery at Fort Mimms. 
Justice well demanded retaliation against him. 
Learning from the chiefs what had been required 
of them by Jackson, he was prevailed upon, as per- 
haps the safer course, to proceed to his camp, and 
make a voluntary surrender of himself. Having 
reached it without being known, and obtained ad 
mission to the general's quarters, he fearlessly stood 
in his presence, and told him he was Weatherford, 
the chief who had commanded at Fort Mimms, and 
that, desiring peace for himself and for his people, 






132 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

he had come to ask it. Somewhat surprised that one 
who so richly merited punishment should so sternly 
demand the protection which had been extended to 
others, Jackson replied to him, that he was astonish- 
ed he should venture to appear in his presence ; that 
he was not ignorant of his having been at Fort 
Mimms, nor of his inhuman conduct there, for which 
he well deserved to die. " I had directed," con- 
tinued he, " that you should be brought to rne con- 
fined ; and had you appeared in this way, I should 
have known how to have treated you." Weather- 
ford replied, " I am in your power — do with me as 
you please. I am a soldier ; I have done the white 
people all the harm I could ; I have fought them, 
and fought them bravely ; if I had an army, I would 
yet fight, and content, to the last: but I have none ; 
my people are all gone. I can now do no more 
than weep over the misfortunes of my nation." 
Pleased at the firm and high-toned manner of this 
child of the forest, Jackson informed him, that he 
did not solicit him to lay down his arms, or to be- 
come peaceable : " The terms on which your nation 
can be saved, and peace restored, have already been 
disclosed : in this way, and none other, can you 
obtain safety." If, however, he desired still to 
continue the war, and felt himself prepared to meet 
the consequences, although he was then completely 
in his power, no advantage should be taken of that 
circumstance ; that he was at perfect liberty to re- 
tire, and unite himself with the war party, if he 
oleased ; but, when taken, he should know how to 
Ireat him, for then his life should pay the forfeit of 
his crimes ; if this were not desired, he might re 
main where he was, and should be protected. 






» 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 133 

Nothing dismayed, Weatherford answered, that 
he desired peace, that his nation might, in some 
measure, be relieved from their sufferings ; that, 
independent of other misfortunes, growing out of a 
state of war, their cattle and grain were all wasted 
and destroyed, and their women and children left 
destitute of provisions. "But," continued he, "I 
may be well addressed in such language now. 
There was a time when I had a choice, and could 
have answered you : I have none now — even hope 
has ended. Once I could animate my warriors to 
battle ; but I cannot animate the dead. My war- 
riors can no longer hear my voice : their bones are 
at Talladega, Tallushatcb.ee, Emuckfaw, and To- 
hopeka. I have not surrendered myself thought- 
lessly. Whilst there were chances of success, I 
never left my post, nor supplicated peace. But my 
people are gone, and I now ask it for my nation, 
and for myself. On the miseries and misfortunes 
brought upon my country, I look back with deepest 
sorrow, and wish to avert still greater calamities. 
If I had been left to contend with the Georgia 
army, I would have raised my corn on one bank of 
the river, and foughc them on the other ; but your 
people have destroyed my nation. You are a brave 
man: I rely upon your generosity. You will ex- 
act no terms of a conquered people but such as 
they should accede to : whatever they may be, it 
would now be madness and folly to oppose. It 
they are opposed, you shall find me amongst the 
sternest enforcers of obedience. Those who would 
still hold out can be influenced only by a mean 
spirit of revenge ; and to this they must not, and 
shall not, sacrifice the last remnant of their country 
You have told our nation where we might go, and 
12 



134 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

be safe. This is good talk, and they ought to listei 
to it. They shall listen to it." 

The bold independence of his conduct left no 
doubt of the sincerity of his professions, and full 
confidence was reposed in his declarations. The 
peace party became reconciled to him, and consent- 
ed to bury all previous animosities. In a few days 
afterwards, having obtained permission, he set out 
from camp, accompanied by a small party, to search 
through the forest for his followers and friends, and 
persuade them to give up a contest in which hope 
seemed to be at an end, that, by timely submission, 
they might save their nation from further disasters 

The present was a favourable moment for pre 
venting all further opposition. The enemy, alarm 
ec3, were dispersed, and fleeing in different direc 
tions. To keep alive their apprenensions, and pre 
vent their recovering from the fears with which 
they were now agitated, was of the utmost impor 
tance. If time were given them to form furthe* 
resolutions, some plan of operation might be con- 
certed ; and, although it might not be productive of 
any alarming consequences, yet it might have a 
tendency to lengthen out the war, and involve those 
deluded people in still greater wretchedness. De- 
tachments, sufficiently strong, were accordingly or- 
dered out, to range through the country, prevent 
their collecting at any point, and to scatter and 
destroy any who might be found concerting offen- 
sive operations. Wherever they directed their 
course, submission, and an anxious desire for peace, 
were manifested by the natives. Those who were 
still resolved upon a continuance of the war, and 
trusted for relief to the aid which by their British 
allies was promised, and which they had been for 






LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 135 

some twne expecting-, had retired out of the country, 
towards the sea coast, not doubting but the assist- 
ance looked for would shortly arrive, enable them 
to re-commence hostilities with better hopes of suc- 
cess, and regain their country, which they now 
considered as lost. Many of the chiefs and war- 
riors, looking to the defeats they had continually 
met with in all their battles, viewing it as imprac- 
ticable, with any expectation of better fortune, to 
resist the numerous forces that were collecting and 
anxious to have spared to them a portion of their 
country, determined to discard all ideas of further 
resistance, and to throw themselves for safety on the 
mercy of their conquerors. To this end, the chief 
men, from the different tribes, were daily arriving, 
and asking for peace, on condition only that their 
lives might be spared. 

General Jackson was not ignorant of the faith- 
lessness of these people, and how little confidence 
was to be reposed in the professions of an enemy, 
who, prompted by fear, could be controlled only by its 
influence. He well knew they had been too se- 
verely chastised for their promises to be relied on, 
and too much injured not to feel a disposition to 
renew the conflict with the first flattering hope 
that dawned. Too many difficulties had been en- 
countered, and too many dangers past, in bringing 
those savages to a sense of duty, to leave them now 
with no better security than mere professions. 
Some arrangement was necessary to be made that 
should ensure certainty. None seemed better cal- 
culated for these ends, than what had been already 
announced ; that those disposed to throw away the 
war club, and renew their friendly relations with 
the United States, should retire in the rear of the 



„ 



136 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

advance of the army, and occupy the country about 
the fort he hixl established, and to the east of the 
Coosa. The effect of such an arrangement he cal- 
culated would be this: that, by the line of posts 
already established, he would be able to cut them 
off from any communication with Florida ; while, 
by being placed in that part of the nation inhabited 
by the friendly Indians, whose fidelity was not 
doubted, the earliest intelligence would be had of 
their hostile intentions, should any be manifested. 
The conditions proposed were most cheerfully ac- 
cepted ; and the different tribes forthwith sat out to 
occupy a portion of their country, which alone 
seemed to promise them protection and safety 
Proctor, the chief of the Owewoha war towns, to 
whom this promised security from danger had first 
been made, was reported to be still at home, and to 
have abandoned all intention of removing, in con- 
sequence of permission extended by the United 
States' a<rent to the Creeks, for him and his war- 
riors to remain where they then were residing. On 
receiving this information, the general despatched 
a messenger with information to him, that whether 
he or the agent were to be obeyed, was for him to 
decide ; but that he should treat as enemies all 
who did not immediately retire to the section of 
country which he had pointed out. The chief of 
Owewoha found no difficulty in deciding the ques- 
tion, and without delay prepared to retire where he 
had been previously ordered. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Gibson, wdio had been sent 
out with a detachment of seven hundred and fifty 
men, returned, and reported, that he had proceeded 
a considerable distance down the Alabama River, 
and had destroyed several towns of the war party, 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 137 

but could gain no intelligence of a force being any 
where collected. 

By the establishment of Fort Jackson, a line of 
posts was now formed from Tennessee and from 
Georgia to the Alabama River. The subdued 
spirit of the Indians clearly manifesting that they 
were sincere in their desire for peace, nothing 
remained to be done but to organize the different 
garrisons in such a manner, that, should any hostile 
intention be hereafter discovered, it might be sup- 
pressed. What final steps should be taken, and 
what plans adopted, for permanent security, were 
to be deferred for the arrival of Major-General 
Pinckney, who, being in the neighbourhood, would, 
it was expected, on the next day reach Fort Jack 
son. 

On the 20th General Pinckney arrived, and as- 
sumed the command of the army. The course 
pursued by Jackson, towards satisfying the Indians, 
that to be peaceable was all that was required^ 
meeting his approbation, and understanding that 
the chiefs and warriors of the nation were retiring, 
with their families, whither they had been directed, 
he was satisfied hostilities must cease. Indepen- 
dent of their professions, heretofore, much of the 
property plundered at Fort Mimms, and along the 
frontiers, having been brought in, no doubt was en- 
tertained but all further national opposition would 
be withdrawn. There being no necessity, there- 
fore, for maintaining an army longer in the field, 
orders were issued, on the 21st, for the troops from 
Tennessee to be marched home and discharged , 
taking care, on the route, to leave a sufficient force 
for garrisoning the posts already established. 

To troops who had been engaged in such fa- 
12* 



138 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

tiguing marches, who had been so often exposed to 
hardships, and who had, by their exertions in the 
cause of their country, brought the war to a suc- 
cessful termination, and severely chastised the sav- 
ages, it was a pleasure to retire to their homes from 
the scenes of wretchedness they had witnessed, 
and from a contest where nothing remained to be 
done. 

Whilst these arrangements were progressing, 
the friendly Creeks were engaged in destroying 
their fugitive countrymen, with the most unrelent- 
ing rigour. To have been at the destruction of 
Fort Minims, was a ground of accusation against 
a warrior, which at once placed him without the 
pale of mercy. They affected to view this un- 
provoked offence with sentiments of deeper invete- 
racy than did even our own troops. Meeting a 
small party who were on their way to camp, to sub- 
mil themselves on the terms that had been pre- 
viously offered, and understanding they had ac- 
companied Weatherford in his attack on this fort, 
they arrested their progress, and immediately put 
them to death. 

In two hours after receiving General's Pinckney'a 
order, the western troops commenced their return 
march, and reached Fort Williams on the evening 
of the 24th. Immediate measures were adopted 
for carrying into effect what had been ordered ; to 
send out detachments to disperse any collections 
of the war party that might be found on the route, 
and within striking distance. 

The East Tennessee troops, having a longer pe- 
riod to serve, were, on that account, selected to 
garrison the different posts. General Doherty 
was directed to detail from his brigade seven him 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 139 

lr*st\ and twenty-five men, for the defence of those 
points, with a view to an open communication being 
preserved with Fort Jackson, and to secure more 
effectually a peace, which was, perhaps, not so se- 
curely established as that any precautionary meas- 
ure should be omitted. 

General Jackson, being about to separate from 
his army, did not omit to disclose to them the high 
sense he entertained of their conduct, and how well 
they had deserved of their country. " Within a few 
days," said he, "you have annihilated the power of 
a nation that for twenty years has been the dis- 
turber of your peace." 

The army proceeded on its march, and, crossing 
Tennessee River, in safety reached Camp Blount, 
near Fayetteville, where they were discharged 
from further service. Johnston, who had previously 
fallen in, had destroyed some of the enemy's towns ; 
but had learned nothing of a force being any where 
imbodied along the route he had taken. 

On parting from his troops, the general again 
brought before them the recollection he retained of 
their faithful and gallant conduct, and the patience 
with which they had borne the privations and hard- 
ships of war. On his return, wherever he passed, 
the plaudits of the people were liberally bestowed. 
The ardent and extraordinary zeal he had mani- 
fested in the service of his country, the difficulties 
he had surmounted, with the favourable termination 
which, by his exertions, had been given to a contest 
that had kept alive the anxieties and fears of the 
frontier settlers, excited a general feeling of grati- 
tude and admiration: all were ready to evince the 
high sense they entertained of *he success with 
which every effort had been crowned, and with one 



140 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

accord united in manifesting their confidence and 
respect for him, who, by his zealous exertions, able 
management, and fidelity to the cause in which he 
had embarked, had so greatly contributed to the 
safety, the happiness, and quiet of the country. 



! 



LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. 



141 



CHAPTER VI. 

V 

Jackson is appointed a major-genei-al in the service of the United 
Stales. — Is directed to iyen a negotiation with the Indians. — 
Speech of the Big Warrior, a chief of the nation. — Concludes 
a treaty with the Creek Indians. — His views against Pensacola 
and Florida. — General Armstrong^ letter. — The Spanish 
governor is called on for an explanation of his conduct. — His 
answer, and General Jackson s reply. — The adjutant-general is 
despatched to Tennessee to raise volunteers. — Jackson sets out 
for Mobile. — Orders the Tennessee troops to advance 10 his as- 
sistance. 

The celerity with which an army was raised, 
and pushed into the heart of the enemy's country, 
saved the frontiers. The misfortunes of the mis- 
guided Indians may be regretted, but cannot be 
considered as unmerited. Great forbearance had 
been exercised towards them, as many a parent can 
testify, whose heart bleeds at the remembrance of 

ml ' 

a child that fell a victim to their sanguinary cruelty. 
Cold Water, on the Tennessee, was long a den for 
these savages, whence they made inroads, and, by 
their inhuman butcheries, kept the frontier inhabit- 
ants in perpetual alarm. A descent was made on 
this settlement, as early as 1787. which resulted in 
its destruction. For causes already detailed, their 
towns were once more, in the winter of IS 13, as- 
sailed, and destroyed. 

The war in which the United States were en- 
gaged with Great Britain, afforded the Indians, 
as they believed, a safe opportunity again to satiate 
their angry passions. In addition to former ani- 
mosities, British emissaries had been among them, 
to excite them to opposition. Arms and ammunition 
from Pensacola having been liberally furnished, 
and a belief strongly inspired, that the Americans 



142 LITE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

could be driven off, and the lands possessed by them 
regained by the Indians, they at once resolved 
upon the course they would pursue. The dreadful 
and cruel assault made on the settlement of Tensaw 
was the first intelligence afforded of the lengths to 
which they had determined to proceed. The in- 
security of the frontiers requiring that efficient 
measures should be taken to defend them, it was 
high time for the government to abandon the course 
of moderation they had hitherto practised towards 
those tribes. The legislature of Tennessee, at the 
period of this murderous assault, being in session, 
with a promptitude highly honourable, called out the 
forces of the state, without giving to the general 
government information of the threatened danger 
To protect an extensive country, by erecting garri 
sons, and relying on them for defence, did not ap 
pear to Jackson a course at all likely to assure it? 
object. Placed in command, and called on to act 
he determined, with the troops he could collect or 
so sudden an emergency, to carry the war to theii 
very doors ; and, by giving them employment at 
home, to divert them from their plans, and force 
them at once into measures of defence. Urginp 
the contractors, therefore, to be diligent in the dis 
charge of their duties, and to forward supplies wit) 
all possible haste, he took his position at Fort Stro- 
ther, directly in the enemy's country. The battle 
of Talladega, which shortly afterwards followed, 
gave a severe check to those sanguine hopes they 
had indulged, induced them to believe they were 
contending with a different kind of people from 
what they had expected, and should have convinced 
them, too, that the promised safety, offered by their 
prophets, through their spells and incantations, was 
mere nonsense ; yet so deluded were they, and so 



LIFE OF GENERAL JaCKSON. 143 

confidently confiding in the supernatural powers of 
their inspired men, that they were ready to attribute 
a want of success to circumstances over which 
their prophets could, in future, claim control . 
when it was discovered that the prophets themselves 
did not escape that fatality which attended their 
warriors in battle, they began to think, either that 
they had never been commissioned, or that the 
Great Spirit, for some unknown cause, had with- 
drawn his confidence. 

The death of Monohoe, at the battle of Tohope- 
ka, is strongly illustrative of the infatuations under 
which these deluded and ignorant people laboured. 
They did not at all doubt, but, as their prophets 
had told them, that, having been spoiled of their 
hunting-grounds, they were again to re-occupy 
them through the aid of a new people, who from 
beyond the great waters were coming to assist in 
their recovery. A confidence in what those sooth- 
sayers disclosed would, also, they believed, produce 
the effect of protecting and guarding them from 
wounds and injury when engaged in battle. All 
those marvellous stories were confided in ; but 
when, at this battle, one of their principal prophets 
fell, and by a cannon shot received in the mouth, 
they adopted the opinion, that the character of the 
wound was a judgment on his false pretensions, and 
forthwith departed from those visions of faith which 
previously they had entertained. 

The uniform and uninterrupted successes obtain- 
ed over them, in all our battles, may impress the 
minds, not only of these, but of the Indians gene- 
rally within our limits, with a higher reverence for 
the character of our nation than they have hitherto 
been disposed to entertain ; give protection to our 



144 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

citizens, and ensure that security to the govern 
ment, which the mildness it has practised, and the 
tribute it has constantly given them for their peace, 
has, heretofore, never been able to effect ; they 
will tend to destroy the influence held over them 
by other nations, and bring them to a conviction, 
that the United States is the only power whose 
hostility they should fear, or whose friendship they 
should prize. 

It was now eight months since General Jackson 
had left home, to arrest the progress of the Indian 
war : durin^ most of which time he had been in a 
situation of bodily infirmity that would have direct- 
ed a prudent man to his bed, instead of advancing 
to the field. During this period, he had never seen 
his family, or been absent from the army, except to 
visit the posts in his rear, and arrange with his con- 
tractors some certain plan to guard against a future 
failure of supplies. His health was still delicate, 
and rendered retirement essential to its restoration ; 
but his uniformly successful conduct, and the es- 
sential advantages he had produced, had brought 
him too conspicuously before the public for any 
other sentiment to be indulged than that he should 
be placed, with an important command, in the ser- 
vice of the United States. 

The resignation of General Hampton enabled the 
government, in a short time, to afford him an evi- 
dence of the respect it entertained for his servi- 
ces and character. A notice of his appointment as 
brigadier and brevet major-general, was forwarded, 
on the 22d of May, from the war department. 
General Harrison having, about this time, for 
some cause, become dissatisfied with the conduct 
of the government towards him, refused to be long- 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 145 

cr considered one of her military cetors ; to supply 
this vacancy, a commission of major-general was 
forwarded to Jackson, which reached him the day 
after the notification of his first appointment, and 
before he had been enabled to return an answer 
whether or not it would be accepted. The impor- 
tant services which he had rendered, added to the 
rank which, under the authority of his state, lie 
had held, might well induce a doubt whether the 
appointment first conferred was at all complimen- 
tary, or one which, injustice to his own character, 
he could have accepted. Whatever of objection 
there might or could have arisen, on this subject, 
was removed by the subsequent appointment of 
major-general, made on the resignation of Harrison, 
and which was accepted. 

The contest with the Indians being ended, the 
first object of the government was, to enter into 
some definitive arrangement, which should deprive 
of success any effort that might hereafter be made 
by other powers, to enlist those savages m their 
wars. None was so well calculated to answer this 
end, as that of restricting their limits, so as to cut 
off their communication with British and Spanish 
agents in East and West Florida. 

No treaty of friendship or of boundary had yet 
been entered into by the government with the In- 
dians: they remained a conquered people, and 
within the limits, and subject to the regulations and 
restrictions, which had been prescribed in March, 
by General Jackson, when he retired from their 
.country. He was now called upon to act in a dif- 
ferent character, and to negotiate the terms upon 
which an amicable understanding should be restored 
between the United States and these conquered 
13 



1 16 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON'. 

Indians. But for the government to proceed on 
the principles of reciprocal treaty stipulations, was, 
in reference to the expensive war imposed on them, 
and the unprovoked manner in which it had been 
begun, not to be expected. Those Indians hau 
broken without cause the treaty they had made, 
outraged humanity, and murdered our unoffending 
citizens. Under such circumstances, by the peace 
now to be concluded, to negotiate with, and, as here- 
tofore, recognise them as an independent and sove- 
reign people, comported not with propriety, nor 
was demanded by any of the ties of moral duty. 
General Jackson, therefore, was directed to treat 
with them as a conquered people, and to prescribe, 
not negotiate, the conditions of a peace. Colonel 
Hawkins, who, for a considerable time past, had 
been the an-ent to this nation, was also associated 
in the mission. With the western people the ap- 
pointment was not acceptable, and much solicitude 
was felt from an apprehension of his influence and 
weight of character amongst the Indians ; and a 
fear that his partialities and sympathies might in- 
cline him too much to their interest. 

On the 10th of July, the general, with a small 
retinue, reached the Alabama; and on the 10th of 
August, after some difficulty, succeeded in procur- 
ing the execution of a treaty, in which the Indians 
pledged themselves no more to listen to foreign 
emissaries, — to hold no communication with British 
or Spanish garrisons ; guarantied to the United 
States the right of erecting military posts in their 
country, and a free navigation of all their waters. 
They stipulated also, that they would suffer no agent 
or trader to pass among them, or hold any kind of 
commerce or intercourse witli their nation, unless 



L'FE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 147 

Bpecially deriving his authority from the president 
of the United States. 

The stipulations and exactions of this treaty were 
m conformity with instructions issued from the de- 
partment of war, and differs in expression from 
what has been usually contained in instruments of 
a similar kind. It breathes the language of de- 
mand, not of contract and agreement; and hence 
h:ts General Jackson been censured for the manner 
after which the negotiation was concluded. The 
course, however, which was pursued, is readily jus- 
tified by the expressions of the order under which 
he acted, and which prevented the exercise of dis- 
cretion. General Armstrong, who at that time was 
in the cabinet, and spoke the sentiments of the 
president, in a letter addressed to Jackson; on the 
2 1th of March, uses the following remarks: — "It 
has occurred to me, that the proposed treaty with 
the Creeks should take a form altogether military, 
and be in the nature of a capitulation ; in which. 
case the whole authority of making and conclud 
mg the terms will be in you exclusively, as com- 
manding general." Accompanying this were in- 
structions formally drawn up, and which were to 
constitute the basis on which the negotiation wu 
to rest.* 



* In 'he instructions which issued from the department of war, 
as the basis on which this treaty was to be concluded, it is en- 
joined by the secretary to exact, 

" 1st. An indemnification for expenses incurred by the United 
States in prosecuting the war. by such cession of laud as may 
be deemed an equivalent for said expenses. 

" 2d. A stipulation on their part, that they will cease all inter- 
course with any Spanish port, garrison or '.own; and that they 
will not admit amongst tiiein any agent or trader who does not 
derive his authority or license fioni the United Slates. 

" 3d. Au acknowledgment of the right of the United States to 



148 LIFt OF GENERAL JACKSOJY. 

To settle the boundary, defining the extent, c(. 
territory to be secured to the Creeks, and that which 
they would be required to surrender, was attended 
with difficulty, from the intrigues of the Cherokee 
nation, who sought to obtain such an acknowledg- 
ment of their lines as would give them a consider- 
able portion of country never attached to their 
claim. The Creeks had heretofore permitted this 
tribe to extend its settlements as low down the 
Coosa as the mouth of Wills' Creek. It was insist- 
ed now, in private council, that, as they were about 
to surrender their country lying on the Tennessee 
River, they should, previously to signing the treaty, 
acknowledge the extension of the Cherokee boun- 
dary, which would secure their claim against that 
of the United States. The only reply obtained 
from the Creeks was in truly Indian spirit, that 
they could not lie by admitting what did not in 
reality exist. 

Sufficient territory was acquired on the south to 
give security to the Mobile settlements, and to the 
western borders of Georgia, which had often felt 
the stroke of Indian vengeance and cruelty ; while 
at the same time was effected the important purpose 
of separating them from the Seminole tribes, and our 
unfriendly neighbours in Florida. To the frontiers 
of Tennessee an assurance of safety was given by 
the settlements which would be afforded on the 

open roads through their territory, and also to establish such 
military posts and trading" houses as may be deemed necessary 
and proper; and 

" 4th. A surrender of the prophets, and other instigators of the 
war, to be lield subject to die order of the president. 

" You are authorized, in conjunction with Colonel Hawkins, to 
open and conclude a treaty of peace with the hostile Creeks, as 
soon, as they shall express a desire to put an end to the war. 

« J. ARMSTRONG.* 



LIFE OF C.ENEItAL JACKSON. 



149 



kinds stretching along the Tennessee River ; whilst 
the extent of the cession, west of the Coosa, would 
effectually cut off all communication with the Chick- 
asaws and Choctaws, and prevent, in future, the 
passage of those emissaries from the north-western 
tribes, who, during the present war, had so indus- 
triously fomented the discontents of the Creeks, 
and excited them to hostility. 

Before being finally acted upon, the treaty had 
been fully debated in council, and the voice of the 
nation pronounced against it. Jackson had already 
submitted the views of his government, and now 
met them in council, to learn their determination. 
He was answered by the Big Warrior, a friendly 
chief, and one of the first orators of tlie nation, 
who declared the reluctance that was felt, in yield- 
ing to the demand, from a conviction of the conse- 
quences involved, and the distresses it must inevita- 
bly bring upon them. The firm and dignified elo- 
quence of this untutored orator evinced a nerve 
and force of expression, that might net have passed 
unnoticed, had it been exhibited before a more 
highly polished assembly : the conclusion of his 
speech is given, for the satisfaction of such as can 
mark the bold display of savage genius, and admire 
it when discovered. Having unfolded the causes 
that produced the war, told of their sufferings, and 
admitted that they had been preserved alone by the 
army which had hastened to their assistance, he 
urged, that, although in justice it might be required 
of them to defray, by a transfer of a portion of 
their country, the expenses incurred, yet was the 
demand premature, because the war was not ended, 
nor the war party conquered ; they had only fled 
away, and might yet return He portrayed the 
13 * ' 



150 LIFE OF GEJSKKAL JACKSOTf. 

habits of the Indians, and how seriously they would 
be affected by the surrender required of them, and 
thus concluded : 

" The president, our father, advises us to honesty 
and fairness, and promises that justice shall be 
done: I hope and trust it will be! I made this war, 
which has proved so fatal to my country, that the 
treaty entered into a long time ago, with father 
Washington, might not be broken. To his friendly 
arm I hold fast. I will never break that bright 
chain of friendship we made together, and which 
bound us to stand to the United States. He was a 
father to the Muscoga people ; and not only to them 
but to all the people beneath the sun. His talk I 
now hold in my hand. There sits the agent he 
sent among us. Never has he broken the treaty 
He has lived with us a long time. He has seen 
our children born, who now have children. By his 
direction cloth was wove, and clothes were made r 
and spread through our country ; but the Red 
Sticks came, and destroyed all, — we have none now 
Hard is our situation, and you ought to consider it. 
I state what all the nation knows: nothing will I 
keep secret. 

" There stands the Little Warrior. While we 
were seeking to give satisfaction for the murders 
that had been committed, he proved a mischief- 
maker ; he went to the British on the lakes ; he 
c^me back, and brought a package to the frontiers, 
which increased the murders here. This conduct 
has already made the war party to suffer greatly ; 
but, although almost destroyed, they will not yet 
open their eyes, but are still led away by the 
British at Pensacola. Not so with us : we were 
rational, and had our senses — we yet are so. In 



LIFE OF GF.NERAL JACKSON. 151 

the war of the revolution, our father beyond the 
waters encouraged us to join him, and we did so. 
We had no sense then. The promises he made 
were never kept. We were young and foolish, 
and fought with him. The British can no more 
persuade us to do wrong: they have deceived us 
once, and can deceive us no more. You are two 
great people. If you go to war, we will have no 
concern in it; for we are not able to fight. We 
wish to be at peace with every nation. If they 
offer me arms, I will say to them, You put me in 
danger, to war against a people born in our own 
land. They shall never force us into danger. You 
shall never see that our chiefs are boys in councL, 
who will be forced to do any thing. I talk thus, 
knowing that father Washington advised us never 
to interfere in wars. He told us that those in 
peace were the happiest people. He told us that, 
if an enemy attacked him, he had warriors enough, 
and did not wish his red children to help him. If 
the British advise us to any thing, 1 will tell you — 
not hide it from you. If they say we must fight, I 
will tell them, No !" 

The war party being not entirely subdued, was 
but a pretext to avoid the demands which were 
made; presuming that, if the council could break 
up, without any tiling be ng definitely done, they 
might, in part, or perhaps altogether, avoid what 
was now required of them ; but the inflexibility of 
the person witli whom they were treating evinced 
to them, that, however just and well founded might 
be their objections, the policy under which he acted 
was too clearly defined, for any abandonment of his 
demands to be at all calculated upon. Shelocta, 
one of their chiefs, who had united with our troops 



152" LSFE OF GENERAL JACKSON, 

at the commencement of the war ; who had march 
ed and fought with them in all their battles ; and 
had attached to himself strongly the confidence of 
the commanding general, now addressed him. He 
told him of the regard he had ever felt for his 
white brothers, and with what zeal he had exerted 
himself to preserve peace, and keep in friendship 
with them ; when his efforts had failed, he had 
taken up arms against his own country, and fought 
against his own people ; that he was not opposed to 
yielding- the lands lying on the Alabama, which 
would answer the purpose of cutting off any inter- 
course with the Spaniards ; but the country west 
of the Coosa he wished to be preserved to the na- 
tion.* To effect this, he appealed to the feelings 
of Jackson ; told him of the dangers they had pass- 
ed together ; and of his faithfulness to him in the 
trying scenes through which they had gone. 

There were, indeed, none whose voice ought 
sooner to have been heard than Shclocta's. None 
had rendered greater services, and none had been- 
more faithful. He had claims, growing out of his 
fidelity, that few others had : but his wishes were 
so much at variance with what Jackson considered 
the interest of his country required,, that he was 
answered without hesitation. " You know," said 
he, " that the portion of country, which you desire 
to retain, is that through which the intruders and 
mischief-makers from the lakes reached you, and 
urged your nation to those acts of violence, that 
have involved your people in wretchedness, and 
your country in ruin. Through it leads the path 
Tecmoseh trod, when he came to visit you : that 



stale 



* This country west of the Coosa now forms the respectable 
He of Alabama, admitted into die Union in die year 1311).. 



LIFE OP GEKZRAL JACKSON. 153 

path must be stopped. Until this be done, your 
nation cannot expect happiness, nor mine security. 
I have already told you the reasons foi demanding 
it: they are such as ought not — cannot be departed 
from. This evening must determine whether or 
not you are disposed to become friendly. By re- 
jecting the treaty you will show that you are the 
enemies of the United States— enemies even to 
yourselves." He admitted it to be true, that the 
war was not ended, yet that this was an additional 
reason why the cession should be made ; that then 
a line would be drawn, by which his soldiers would 
be enabled to know their friends. " When our 
armies," continued he, " came here, the hostile 
party had even stripped you of your country : we 
retook it, and now offer to restore it; — theirs we 
propose to retain. Those who are disposed to give 
effect to the treaty will sign it They will be 
within our territory ; will be protected and fed : 
and no enemy of theirs, or ours, shall molest them. 
Those who are opposed to it shall have permission 
to retire to Pensacola. Here is the paper : take it, 
and show the president who are his friends. Con- 
sult, and this evening let me know who will assent 
to it, and who will not. I do not wish, nor will I 
attempt, to force any of you — act as you think 
proper.' 

They proceeded to deliberate and re-examine 
the course they should pursue, which terminated in 
their assent to the treaty, and the extension of those 
advantages that had been insisted on.* 

* It was agreed that il>e line should begin where the Cherokee 
southern boundary crossed the Coosa, to run down that river to 
Woeium-ka, or the Big- Falls, and thence eastwardly to Georgia. 
East and north of this line, containing - upwards of one hundred 
and nt'ty thousand square miles, remained to the Indians. 



154 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSOIV. 

In the progress of this- business another difficul- 
ty arosj : the council insisted that there should be 
inserted in the treaty a reservation of certain tracts 
of land ; one for Colonel Hawkins, in consideration 
of his fidelity to them as an agent; and another to 
Jackson, because of the gratitude felt towards him 
for his exertions in their favour against the hostile 
Creeks. To this the general objected. It was 
personal as it regarded himself, and he was unwil- 
ling to appear in any point of view, where suspicion 
could attach, that he had availed himself of his 
Dfficial situation to obtain personal benefits ; fully 
aware that, however the facts might be, selfish con- 
siderations would be imputed as an inducement to 
what was done. He refused, therefore, to have it 
inserted ; and for the further reason, that the in- 
structions, under which he was acting, required it 
to be a capitulation, not a treaty. The next morn- 
jng, however, when they met in council to sign the 
instrument, the chiefs delivered to the general a 
paper, expressing a wish, and disclosing their rea- 
sons, that a reservation to himself, Colonel Haw- 
kins, and Mayfield, who, being made a prisoner in 
his youth, had always resided in the nation, might 
be assented to ; and requested it to be forwarded 
on and made known to the government. Jackson 
consented to do so, and to recommend its adoption . 
but that the reservation they had thought proper to 
request, if assented to, he would accept of on no 
other terms than that their father the president 
should dispose of it, and apply the proceeds to those 
of the nation on whom distress and poverty hart 
been brought by the war. Mr. Madison subse- 
quently brought this matter to the consideration of 
the senate of the United States* and* in reconv 



LIFE OF GENERAL, JACKSON. 15 



mending its adoption, highly complimented the del- 
icacy with which the proposition had been met by 
General Jackson : it was, however, never acted on 
and assented to by the senate. 

Every attention had been given, during the ne- 
gotiation, to impress on the minds of the savages 
the necessity of remaining at peace and in friendship 
with the United States ; for, although all apprehen- 
sions of their acting in concert as a nation had sub- 
sided, yet it was important to leave their minds 
favourably impressed, lest the wandering fugitives, 
scattered in considerable numbers towards the Es- 
cambia and Pensacola 5 might, by continuing hostile, 
associate with them others of their countrymen, at- 
tach themselves to the British, should they appear 
in the south, aid them by their numbers, and pilot 
them through the country. 

This retreat of the savages in East Florida had 
been always looked upon as a place whence the 
United States might apprehend serious difficulties. 
There was no doubt but that the British, through 
this channel, with the aid^of the governor, had pro- 
tected the Indians, and supplied them with arms 
and ammunition ; nor was it less certain but that, 
through the art and address practised on them, they 
had been excited to the outrages which had been 
heretofore committed. It was an idea entertained 
by Jackson, at the commencement of the Creek war, 
that the proper mode of procedure would be to 
push his army through the nation ; gain this den, 
where vegetated so many evils; and, by holding it, 
effectually cut off their intercourse, and means of 
encouraging the war : but the unexpected difficul- 
ties, which we have before noticed, had repressed 
the execution of his well-digested plans, and left 



156 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

him to pursue his course as circumstances, and the 
obstacles met with, would permit. The assistance 
which, during the war, had been continually afford- 
ed these people from Pensacola, induced him once 
more to turn his attention there ; and he now 
strongly urged on government the propriety of 
breaking down this strong hold, whence so many 
evils had flowed, and whence greater ones were to 
be expected. His mind, actively engaged, while 
employed in settling all differences at Fort Jackson, 
had sought, through every channel that could afford 
it, information as to the designs of the British 
against the southern parts of the Union. The idea 
nad been prevalent, and generally indulged, that, 
as soon as the severity of approaching winter should 
nut a stop to active operations on the Canada fron- 
tier, with all their disposable force, they would turn 
their attention against the southern states, and there 
attempt to gain some decisive advantage. New 
Orleans, with one consent, was fixed upon as the 
point that most probably would be assailed. The 
circumstance of there being so many persons there, 
who have never been supposed to entertain any 
well-founded regard for the country in which they 
lived, together with a large black population, which, 
it was feared, might be excited to insurrection and 
massacre, through the persuasions of an enemy who 
seemed to disregard all the laws of humanity, 
were reasons which strongly led to this conclusion. 
General Jackson, having understood that that 
comfort and aid, which heretofore had been so lib- 
erally extended, was still afforded by the Spanish 
governor to the hostile Indians, who had fled from 
the ravages of the Creek war, cherished the belief 
that his conduct was such as deservedly to exclude 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 157 

him from that protection to which, under other cir- 
cumstances, he would be entitled, from the profess- 
ed neutrality of Spain. At all events, if the im- 
proper acts of the Spanish agents would not author- 
ize the American government openly to redress 
herself for the unprovoked injuries she had received 
they were such, he believed, as would justify any 
course which had for its object to arrest their con- 
tinuance, and give safety to the country. In this point 
of view he had already considered it, when, on his 
way to the treaty at Fort Jackson, he received certain 
information, that about three hundred English troops 
had landed ; were fortifying themselves at the 
mouth of the Apalachicola ; and were endeavouring 
to excite the Indians to war. No time was lost in 
giving the government notice of what was passing, 
and of the course most advisable to be pursued. 
The advantages to be secured from the possession 
of Pcnsacola he had frequently urged. 

On the 17th of January, J 815, after the British 
army had been repulsed at New Orleans, and the de- 
scent on Florida almost forgotten, through the post 
office department, dated at Washington city, the 18th 
of July, 1814, he received the following letter from 
General Armstrong, then secretary at war: 

" The case you put is a very strong one : and, if 
all the circumstances stated by you unite, the con- 
clusion is irresistible. It becomes our duty to carry 
our arms where we find our enemies. It is believed, 
and I am so directed by the president to say, that 
there is a disposition, on the part of the Spanish gov- 
ernment, not to break with the United States, nor to 
encourage any conduct, on the part of her sir^'iMi- 
nate agents, having a tendency to such rupture. We 
must, therefore, m this ?ase, be careful to ascertain 
11 



15S LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

facts, and even to distinguish what, on the part of the 
Spanish authorities, may be the effect of menace 
and compulsion, or of their choice and policy. The 
result of this inquiry must govern. If they ad- 
mit, feed, arm, and co-operate with the British and 
hostile Indians, we must strike on the broad princi 
pie of self-preservation : — under other and different 
circumstances, we must forbear.' 1 

That the state of things, here suggested by the 
secretary, did actually exist ; that the British were 
favourably received, and every assistance necessary 
to a continuance of hostilities extended to the Indi- 
ans, the government had been already apprized, by 
the frequent communications made to them on the 
subject. 

On arriving at Fort Jackson, his first attention 
had been directed to a subject which he believed to 
be of greater importance than making Indian trea- 
ties — to establish a plan by which to be constantly 
advised, during his stay, of those schemes that were 
in agitation in the south: believing that every 
passing event might be readily obtained through 
the Indians, who could go among the British with- 
out in the least exciting suspicion, he had required 
Colonel Hawkins to procure some, who were confi- 
dential, and might be certainly relied on, to proceed 
to the Apalachicola, and towards the coast, and to 
return as early as they could obtain correct infor- 
mation of the strength, views, and situation of the 
enemy. In about fifteen days they came back, con 
firming the statement previously received, that a 
considerable English force had arrived, and was 
then in the Bay of St. Rose ; that muskets and am- 
munition had been given to the Indians, and runners 



L.TFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 159 

despatched to the different tribes to invite them to 
the coast. 

Satisfied that such permissions, by a neutral 
power, were too grievous to be borne, he immedi- 
ately addressed a letter to the governor of Pensa- 
cola, apprizing him of the information received ; 
and inquiring why and wherefore it happened that 
every protection and assistance was furnished the 
enemies of the United States, within his territory ; 
requesting him to state whether or not the facts 
were as they had been represented ; and demanding 
to have surrendered to him such of the chiefs of 
the hostile Indians as were with him. " I rely," 
continued he, " on the existing friendship of Spain, 
her treaties, and that neutrality which she should 
observe, as authority for the demand I make." The 
governor's answer, which shortly afterwards was 
received, evinced nothing of a conciliatory temper, 
and left no hope of procuring any other redress 
than that which might be obtained through some 
different channel. It was a subject, however, 
which required to be managed with considerable 
caution. Spain and the United States were at 
peace. To reduce any portion of her territory, and 
take possession of it, in exclusion of her authority, 
might be construed such an aggression as to induce 
her into the war. On the other hand, for her, with 
open arms, to receive our enemies, and permit them 
to make every preparation, within her ports, for in- 
vading our country, were outrages too monstrous 
to be borne, and, in the opinion of Jacksop. required 
to be remedied, let the consequences in prospective 
be what they might. Although these things had 
been earnestly pressed upon the consideration of 
the war department, no answer to his repeated so- 



160 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

licitations on the subject had been received. On 
his own responsibility, to advance to the execution 
of a measure, which involved so much, when his 
government was, and had for some time been, in 
possession of all the circumstances, was risking too 
much. Yet, were it delayed longer, every day 
might give to Pensacola additional strength, and 
increase the danger attendant on its reduction. 
Undetermined, under considerations like these, he 
resolved upon another expedient — to despatch a 
messenger, to lay open to the governor the ground 
of his complaint — obtain from him a declaration of 
his intention, as regarded the course he meant to 
adopt, and pursue — and ascertain whether he de- 
signed to make subsisting treaties, between the two 
nations, the basis of his conduct, or to pursue a con- 
cealed course, which, under the garb of pretended 
friendship, cloaked all the realities of war. The 
propriety of delivering up the hostile Indians, who 
were with him, to atone for the violation of existing 
treaties, and the rights of humanity, and the mur- 
ders they had committed, was again solicited. 

A reply was not concluded on by the governor 
for some time, owing to a very considerable doubt 
that harassed his mind, whether it would not be 
more proper to return it without an answer, " in im- 
'tation of the conduct of General Flournoy, who, 
acting in conformity to the orders of Mr. Madison, 
heretofore had omitted to answer a despatch of his." 
But, having considered the matter quite deliberate- 
ly, he at length came to the conclusion, to wave the 
example set'him by the president, and, in replying 
to act in obedience to those " high and generous 
feelings peculiar to the Spanish character." 

To the demand made upon him, that the hostile 



LIFE OF GENEPvAL JACKSON. 161 

Indians should be delivered up, he denied that they 
were with him, " at that time," or that he could, on 
the ground of hospitality, refuse them assistance 
at a moment when their distresses were so o-reat : 
nor could he surrender them, without, acting- in open 
violation of the lavvs of nations, — laws, to which his 
sovereign had ever strictly adhered, and of which 
he had already afforded the United States abundant 
evidence, in omitting to demand of them " the trai- 
tors, insurgents, incendiaries, and assassins of his 
ciiiefs, namely, Guiterres, Toledo, and many others, 
whom • the American government protected and 
maintained in committing hostilities, in fomenting 
the revolution, and m lighting up the flames of dis- 
cord in the internal provinces of the kingdom of 
Mexico." 

To the inquiry, why the English had been suffered 
to land in his province arms and ammunition, with a 
view to encouraging the Indians in their acts of hos- 
tility, he proceeded with his same " national charac- 
teristic," and demanded to be informed if the United 
States were ignorant, that, at the conquest of Flor- 
ida, there was a treaty between Great Britain and 
the Creek Indians, and whether they did not know, 
that it still existed between Spain and those tribes. 
"But," continued he, "turn your eyeo to the island 
of Barrataria, and you will there perceive that, 
within the very territory of the United States, pi- 
rates are sheltered, with the manifest design of 
committing hostilities by sea upon the merchant 
vessels of Spain ; and with such scandalous notori- 
ety, that the cargoes of our vessels, taken by them, 
have been publicly sold in Louisiana." 

It is difficult to discover how, or by what svstern 
of logic, it was, that Governor Manrequez was ena 
14 * 



162 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

bled to trace any kind of analogy between the 
United States affording to a few of tne patriots of 
South America an asylum from the persecutions 
that were threatened to be imposed on them by 
Spanish tyranny, and his permitting, within the lim- 
its of Florida, comfort, aid, and assistance to be 
given the savages, that they might be enabled to 
indulge in cruelty towards us. Nor can it be per- 
ceived how it was, that the piracies of Lalite and 
his party, at Barrataria, and the successful smug- 
gling which brought their plundered wealth into 
port, in open defiance of our laws, could operate as 
a sufficient pretext for giving protection to an ene- 
my entering the territory of Spain, and continuing 
there, with the avowed intention of waging war 
against a power, with which she not only professed 
to be in friendship, but was bound by treaty to be 
so, and at the very time, too, when she claimed to 
be neutral. Nor can we see the force of the argu- 
ment, because Pmgland had a treaty with the Creek 
Indians, which afterwards devolved on Spain, that 
the agents of his Catholic majesty were, in conse- 
quence, justified in protecting the savages in their 
murders, or assisting covertly, as they did, in the 
war against us : how the conclusions were arrived 
at, the governor can decide at some moment, when, 
relieved from those high and honourable feelings 
" peculiar to the Spanish character," Reason mcy 
re-assert her empire over him, and point out the 
manner in which he was enabled to produce his 
strange results. 

The governor, however, had evinced rather too 
high a state of feeling, and taken his ground with- 
out suffering his reflections to go to their full ex- 
tent. He had placed arms in the hands of the sav 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 163 

r.ges " for the purposes of self-defence ;" many of 
them were hastening to him ; more were yet ex- 
pected. The British had already landed a partial 
force, and a greater one was shortly looked for. 
Against this expected strength, added to what his 
own resources could supply, he believed an Ameri- 
can general would not venture to advance. These 
considerations had led him to assume a lofty tone ; 
to arraign the conduct of the United States, in ex- 
tinguishing the Indian title on the Alabama ; to ac- 
cuse them of violating their treaties, and to point 
out the danger to which the restoration of peace in 
Europe might expose them. As yet he was ignorant 
of the energy of the man already near his borders, 
and who, to march against and break down his fan- 
cied security, did not desire to be ordered, but only 
to be apprized by his country that it might be done. 
Jackson, in no wise pleased with the boldness of his 
remarks, proceeded again to address him, and exhib- 
ited fully the grounds of complaint in behalf of his 
country, and in a style at least as courtly as his own. 
"Were I clothed,'' he remarks, " witii diplomatic 
powers, for the purpose of discussing the topics em- 
braced in the wide range of injuries, of which you 
complain, and which have long since been adjusted, 
I could easily demonstrate that the United States 
have been always faithful to their treaties, steadfast 
in their friendships, nor have ever claimed any thing 
that was not warranted by justice. They have en 
dured many insults from the governors and other 
officers of Spain, which, if sanctioned by their sove- 
reign, would have amounted to acts of hostility, 
without any previous declaration on the subject. 
They have excited the savages to war, and afford 
ed them the means of waging it : the property of 



164 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

our citizens has been captured at sea, and, if com 
pensation has not been refused, it has at least been 
withheld. But, as no such powers have been dele- 
gated to me, I shall not assume them, but leave 
them to the representatives of our respective gov- 
ernments. 

" I have the honour of being- intrusted with the 
command of this district. Charged with its protec- 
tion, and the safety of its citizens, I feel my ability 
to discharge the task, and trust your excellency 
will always find me ready and willing to go for- 
ward, in the performance of that duty, whenever 
circumstances shall render it necessary. I agree 
with you, perfectly, that candour and polite lan- 
guage should, at all times, characterize the commu- 
nications between the officers of friendly sovereign- 
ties ; and I assert, without the fear of contradiction, 
that my former letters were couched in terms the 
most respectful and unexceptionable. I only re- 
quested, and did not demand, as you have assert- 
ed, that the ringleaders of the Creek confederacy 
night be delivered to me, who had taken refuge in 
your town, and who had violated all laws, moral 
civil and divine. This I had a right to dc, from the 
treaty which I sent you, and which I now again en- 
close, with a request that you will change your 
translation ; believing, as I do, that your former 
one was wrong, and has deceived you. What 
kind of an" answer you returned, a reference 
to your letter will explain. The whole of it breath- 
ed nothing but hostility, grounded upon assumed 
facts, and false charges, and entirely evading the 
inquiries that had been made. 

" I can but express my astonishment at your pro 
test against the cession on the Alabama, lying 



LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. 



165 



within the acknowledged limits and jurisdiction of 
the United States, and which has been ratified, in 
due form, by the principal chiefs and warriors of 
the nation. But my astonishment subsides, when, 
on comparison, I rind it upon a par with the rest of 
your letter and conduct ; taken together, they af- 
ford a sufficient justification for any course on my 
part, or consequences that may ensue to yourself. 
My government will protect every inch of her terri- 
tory, her citizens, and their property, from insult 
and depredation, regardless of the political revolu- 
tions of Europe ; and, although she has been at all 
times sedulous to preserve a good understanding 
with all the world, yet she has sacred rights, thai 
cannot be trampled upon with impunity. Spain 
had better look to her own intestine commotions, 
before she walks forth in that majesty of strength 
and power, which you threaten to draw down upon 
the United States. 

" Your excellency has been candid enough to ad- 
mit your having supplied the Indians with arms. 
In addition to this, I have learned that a British 
flag has been seen flying on one of your forts. All 
this is done whilst you are pretending to be neu- 
tral. You cannot be surprised, then, but on the 
contrary will provide a fort in your town for my 
soldiers and Indians, should I take it in my head to 
pay you a visit. 

" In future I beg you to withhold your insulting 
charges against my government for one more in- 
clined to listen to slander than I am ; nor consider 
me any more as a diplomatic character, unless so 
proclaimed to you from the mouths of my cannon." 

Captain Gordon, who had been despatched to 
Pensacola, had been enabled, during the time ho 



166 LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. 

remained there, to obtain much more satisfactory 
information than it had pleased the governor to 
communicate. Appearances completely developed 
the schemes which were in agitation, and convinc- 
ed him that active operations were intended to be 
commenced somewhere m the lower country. On 
his return, he reported to the general, that he had 
seen from one hundred and fifty to two hundred 
officers and soldiers, a park of artillery, and about 
five hundred Indians, under the drill of British offi- 
cers, armed with new muskets, and dressed in the 
English uniform. 

Jackson directly brought to the view of the gov- 
ernment the information he had received, and again 
uro-ed his favourite scheme, the reduction of Pen- 
eacola. "How long," he observed, "will the Unit- 
ed States pocket the reproach and open insults of 
Spain ? It is alone by a manly and dignified course, 
that we can secure respect from other nations, and 
peace to our own. Temporizing policy is not only 
a disgrace, but a curse to any nation. It is a fact 
that a British captain of marines is, and has for 
some time past been, engaged in drilling and or- 
ganizing the fugitive Creeks, under the eye of the 
governor ; endeavouring, by his influence and pres- 
ents, to draw to his standard as well the peaceable 
as the hostile Indians. If permission had been 
given me to march against this place twenty days 
ago. I would, ere this, have planted there the Amer- 
ican Eagle ; now, we must trust alone to our val- 
our, and to the justice of our cause. But my pres- 
ent resources are so limited — a sickly climate, aa 
well as an enemy, to contend with, and without the 
means of transportation to change the position of 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 167 

my army, that, resting on the bravery of my little 
phalanx, I can only hope for success." 

Many difficulties were presented ; and, although 
anxious to carry into execution a purpose which 
seemed so strongly warranted by necessity, he saw 
that he was wholly without the power of moving, 
even should he be directed to do so. Acting in a 
remote corner of the Union, which was thinly inhab- 
ited, the credit of his government was inadequate 
to procure those things essential to his operations , 
while the poverty of his quarter-master's depart- 
ment presented but a dreary prospect for reliance. 
But, to have all things in a state of readiness for ac- 
tion, when the time should arrive to authorize it, he 
was directing his attention in the way most likely 
to effect it. The warriors of the different tribes of 
Indians were ordered to be marshalled, and taken 
into the pay of the government. He addressed 
himself to the governors of Tennessee, Louisiana, 
and the Mississippi territory, and pressed them to 
be vigilant in the discharge of their duties. Infor- 
mation, he said, had reached him, which rendered 
it necessary that all the forces allotted for the de 
fence of the seventh military district, should be 
held in a state of perfect readiness, to march at any 
notice, and to any point they might be required 
"Dark and heavy clouds hover around us. The 
energy and patriotism of the citizens of your states 
must dispel them. Our rights, our liberties, and 
free constitution, are threatened. This noble pat- 
rimony of our fathers must be defended with the 
best blood of our countrv : to do this, vou must 
hasten to carry into effect the requisition of the 
secretary of war, and call forth your troops without 
delay. " 



168 MFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

On the day after completing his business at Fort 
Jackson, lie had departed for Mobile, to place the 
country in a proper state of defence. The third 
regiment, a part of the forty-fourth and thirty-ninth, 
constituted, entirely, the regular forces he could at 
this time command. Many reasons concurred to 
render it necessary that a sufficient force should be 
brought into the field as early as possible. His ap- 
peals to the people of Tennessee had been generally 
crowned with success ; and he had no doubt but 
that he might yet obtain from them such assistance as 
would enable him, should any unexpected emergen- 
cy arise, to act at least defensively, until the states 
already applied to should have their quotas ready for 
the field. On the citizens of Louisiana and Missis- 
sippi he believed he might securely rely, and that 
their ardour would readily excite them to contend 
with an enemy at their very doors. Well knowing 
the delay incident to bringing militia requisitions 
expeditiously forth, and fearing that some circum- 
stance might arise to jeopardize the safety of the 
country, before the constituted authorities could act, 
he had already despatched his adjutant-general, 
Colonel Butler, to Tennessee, with orders to raise 
volunteers, and have them in readiness to advance 
to his relief, whenever it should be required. 

Every day's intelligence tended to confirm the 
belief that a descent would be made, — most proba- 
bly on New Orleans. Anonymous letters, secretlv 
forwarded from Pensacola, and which found their 
way into the American camp, suggested this as the 
point of assault; and many of the settlers were ap- 
prized by their friends of the fears entertained for 
their safety, and entreated to retire from the gath- 
ering storm, which, it was feared, would soon burst. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 169 

and entirely involve the lower country in ruin. 
Where certainly to expect attack, was as yet un- 
known. The part of the country bordering on Mo- 
bile might be assailed ; yet, taking into considera- 
tion that no very decided advantages could be ob- 
tained there, it was an event not much to be appre- 
hended. The necessity, however, of being prepar- 
ed at all points, co far as the means of defence 
could be procured, was at once obvious ; for, as the 
general, in one of his letters, remarked, " there 
was no telling where or when the spoiler might 
come." 

There were now too many reasons to expect an 
early visit, and too many causes to apprehend dan- 
ger, not to desire that an efficient force might be 
within convenient distance. Colonel Butler was 
accordingly written to, and ordered to hasten for- 
ward, with the volunteers he could procure, and to 
join him without delay. The order reached him 
at Nashville, on the 9th of September, and he forth- 
with engaged actively in its execution. He directly 
applied to General Coffee, to advance with the 
mounted troops he could collect. A general order 
was at the same time issued, bringing to view the 
dangers that threatened, and soliciting those who 
were disposed to aid in protecting their country 
from invasion, to unite with him at Fayetteville, by 
the 28th instant. The appeal was not ineffectual ; 
although the scene of operation was at least four 
hundred miles from the point of rendezvous, the 
call was promptly obeyed ; and two thousand able- 
bodied men, well supplied with rifles and muskets, 
appeared at the appointed time to march with the 
brave General Coffee, who had so often led his 
troops to victory and honour. Colonel Butler, with 
15 



170 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

his usual industry, hastened to press forward the 
militia, under the command of Colonel Lowery 
which had been heretofore required for garrisoning 
the posts in the Indian country ; whilst Captains 
Baker and Butler, with the regular forces lately en- 
listed, advanced from Nashville to Mobile, where 
they arrived in fourteen days. By proper exertions 
every thing was presently in complete readiness : 
and the troops collected for the campaign, in high 
spirits, set out for the point to which danger, duty, 
and their country called them. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 171 



CHAPTER VTI. 

Colrvd Niihol's arrhies at Pensacola, and issues a proclamation to 
the southern inhabitants. — Attack on Fort Bowyer, and loss of 
the Hermes. — Jackson determines to reduce Pensacola. — Demands 
of tlie governor an explanation of his conduct ; his answer — 
Enters and takes possession of Pensacola. — Conduct and perfidy 
of the governor. Destruction, by the British, of Barrancas 
Port. — Our troops return to Mobile. — Expedition against the 
Indians. — General Winchester arrives, and Jackson proceeds to 
take command of New Orleans. 

Whether a force were thus concentrating- to act 
defensively against an invading enemy, or were in- 
tended to reduce the rallying point of the Indians 
and British in the Spanish territory, whence they 
had it in their power to make sudden inroads on 
any part of our coast, as yet all was conjecture. 
It was a trait in Jackson's character to lock closely 
in his bosom all his determinations : it was only to 
a few, on whom he reposed with unlimited confi- 
dence, that the least intimation was at any time giv- 
en of his intentions. The idea could scarcely be 
entertained, that, at this time, any hostility was 
meditated against Pensacola. 

It was impossible he should remain long in doubt, 
as to the course best calculated to assure defence, 
or to the ulterior objects of the enemy. Colonel 
Nicholls, with a small squadron of his Britannic 
majesty's ships, had arrived the latter part of Au- 
gust, and taken up his head-quarters with Governor 
Manrequez. He was an Irishman, sent in advance 
»y his royal master to sow dissensions among our 
people, and to draw around his standard the male- 



172 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

contents and traitors of the country. His proclama 
tion, issued to the western and southern inhabitants, 
full of well-turned periods, false statements and 
high-sounding promises, it was hoped, would lead 
them to a belief, that the government under which 
they lived was forging for them chains ; that it had 
declared war against a power, the freest, the hap- 
piest, the most moral and religious on earth. He 
suited, that he was at the head of a force amply suf- 
ficient to reinstate them in those liberties and en- 
joyments, of which they had been bereaved, by the 
designs of "a contemptible few." That such as 
were disposed to imbrue their hands in the blood 
of their countrymen, might not quietly rest, doubt- 
ing of the assurances proffered them, he concluded 
by tendering, as security for all he had said and 
promised, " the sacred honour of a British officer." 
Perhaps he could have vouchsafed nothing that the 
American people would not have sooner relied on : 
it was a pledge, in which past experience told them 
they could not in safety confide. To them it was 
a matter of surprise, that a country, from which 
they had learned all they had ever known or felt of 
oppression, should come to make them freer than 
they were ; or that, groaning themselves under a 
load of taxes, from which there was scarcely a hope 
of being ever relieved, they should come, with such 
apparent compassion, and great benevolence, to 
take away the burdens of those whom they despis- 
ed, and on whom, for forty years, they had heaped 
nothing but reproach. 

He had waited about two weeks, that his proc 
lamation might take effectual hold, anJ prepare the 
inhabitants to open their bosoms to receive him, 
when this delivering hero aided by his ludian and 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 173 

Spanish allies, set out to ascertain the effect it had 
wrought. Uis first visit was to Fort Bowyer, sit- 
uated on the extreme end of a narrow neck of land, 
about eighteen miles below the head of Mobile Bay, 
the entrance of which it commanded. With the loss of 
one of his ships and an eye, he had the mortification 
to learn, that he had been addressing an incorrigi 
ble race, who could be neither duped, flattered, noi 
forced into submission. 

Fort Bowyer had been heretofore abandoned : 
and, until the arrival of General Jackson in this sec- 
tion of the country, was indeed ill calculated for 
serious resistance. On perceiving its importance, 
he immediately caused it to be placed in the best 
possible state of defence. So effectual was its sit- 
uation in a military point of view, commanding the 
passes of those rivers which discharged themselves 
into the bay, that it was with him a matter of sur- 
prise it had not been more regarded by the United 
States, and even better attended to by our enemies. 

Major Lawrence had the honour to command this 
spot, the gallant defence of which has given it ce- 
lebrity, and raised him to an elevated stand in the 
estimation of his country. That at Pensacola plans 
of operation were digesting, which had for their 
object an invasion of our coast somewhere, was a fact 
to which Lawrence was not a stranger. A dispo- 
sition to have his little fortress in such a state of 
readiness, as would place it in his power, should 
that be their object, to make a brave defence, had 
prompted him to the most vigorous exertions. His 
whole strength was but one hundred and thirty 
men. By this Spartan band was evinced a confi- 
dence in each other, and an unshaken resolution, 
which loft their brave commander no room to np- 
15 * 



174 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 



prehend dishonour to his flag, even should defeat 
result. 

The 12th of September determined all doubt oi 
the object which the British had in view. The sen 
tinels brought intelligence that a considerable force, 
consisting of Indians, marines, and Spaniards, had 
landed ; and the same day two brigs and sloops 
hove in sight of the fort, and anchored. 

The next day a demonstration was made, by those 
who had been landed, to bring on the attack ; but 
a fire from the fort forced them from their position, 
and compelled them to retire about two miles 
whence, attempting to throw up fortifications, they 
were again made to retreat. 

Early on the morning of the 15th, the signals, 
passing from the ships to the shore, led Lawrence 
to believe an assault was intended, and would short- 
ly be made. At half after four o'clock in the even- 
ing, every thing being arranged, the Hermes, in 
the van, commanded by Sir W. H. Percy, and the 
other vessels close in the rear, anchored within 
musket-shot lire of the fort. From her near posi- 
tion, supported by the Carron, and brigs Sophia and 
Anaconda, mounting in all ninety guns, she open- 
ed a broadside. Colonel Nicholls and Captain 
Woodbine, at the head of their detachment, com- 
menced a simultaneous attack by land, with a 
twelve pound howitzer, at point blank distance ; but 
from their sand bank fortifications they were so 
quickly driven as to be unable to produce the slight 
est injury. 

The action ra^ed with considerable violence 
From the fort and ships was pouring a continual fire 
The Hermes, having, at length, received a shot 
through her cab) CjWasdriveafiom her anchorage, and 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 17-5 

floated with the stream. In this situation she was 
thrown into a position, where, for twenty minutes, 
she received a severely raking fire, which did hei 
considerable damage. In her disabled condition, 
it was no longer possible to control her, whence, 
drifting with the current, she ran upon a saLd bank 
about seven hundred yards distant, where, until late 
at night, she remained exposed to the guns of the 
fort. Her commander, finding it impracticable to 
be relieved, set her on fire, and abandoned her. 
She continued burning until eleven o'clock, when 
she blew up. The Carron, next in advance to the 
Hermes, was considerably injured, and with diffi- 
culty went out to sea. 

It may be worth while, to show the difference in 
battle between the two combatants, to mark the 
conduct of British and American officers, under cir • 
cumstances precisely similar. Whilst the battle 
raged, the flag of the van ship was carried away, 
and at this moment she had ceased to fire. What 
had caused its disappearance none could tell : no 
other opinion was, or could with propriety be en- 
tertained, than that it had been hauled down, with 
a vie.w to yield the contest, and surrender. Influ- 
enced by this belief, Lawrence, with a generosity 
characteristic of our officers, immediately desisted 
from further firing. The appearance of a new flag, 
and a broadside from the ship next the Hermes, was 
the first intelligence received that such was not the 
fact and the contest again raged with renewed 
violence. It was but a few minutes, however, before 
Mie flag-staff of the fort was also carried away ; but, 
so far from pursuing the same generous course that 
had just been witnessed, the zeal of the enemy was 
increased, and the assault more furiously urged. 



176 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

At this moment, Nicholls and Woodbine, at the head 
of their embattled train, perceiving what had hap- 
pened, — that our " star-spangled banner" had sunk, 
— at once presuming all danger to have subsided, 
made a most courageous sally from their strong 
hold ; and, pushing towards their vanquished foes, 
were already calculating on a rich harvest of plun- 
der: but a well-directed fire checked their pro- 
gress, dissipated their expectations, and drove them 
back, with a rapidity even surpassing the celerity 
of their advance. 

From the bay, the attack was waged with a force 
of six hundred men, and ninety guns, of larger cal- 
iber than any opposed to thein ; whilst upwards of 
four hundred Indians and other troops were on the 
shore, in rear of the fort. Lawrence's strength waa 
scarcely a tenth of the enemy's. His fort, hastily 
prepared for defence, with not more than twenty 
guns, was ill calculated for stubborn resistance : 
most of these were of small caliber, whilst many, 
from being badly mounted, were capable of render- 
ing no essential service in the action : yet, with 
this great inequality, he well maintained the honour 
of his flag, and compelled the enemy, resting in full 
confidence of success, to retire, with the loss of 
their best ship, and two hundred and thirty men 
killed and wounded ; whilst the loss sustained by 
the Americans did not exceed ten, 

Very different were the feelings of the leaders 
of this expedition, from what had been entertained 
on setting out from Pensacola, where every thing 
had been prepared for giving success to their plans, 
and where scarcely a doubt was entertained of the 
result. Numerous benefits were expected to arise 
from a victory, not in expectancy, but already looked 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 177 

to as certain — as an event that could not fail. From 
it, greater facility would be given to their opera- 
tions ; while Mobile, it was expected, would fall, of 
course. This being effected, independent of the 
strong hold already possessed in Florida, an addi- 
tional advantage would be acquired, calculated tc 
prevent all intercourse with New Orleans from this 
section of the country, enable them more easily tc 
procure supplies, and, having obtained their expect- 
ed re- enforcements, piloted and aided by the Indians 
to proceed across to the Mississippi, and cut off all 
communication with the western states. To rendei 
the blow effectual was important; that, by impress 
ing at once the inhabitants with an idea of thei. 
prowess, the proclamations already disseminated 
might claim a stronger influence on doubting 
minds. The force employed was calculated to at 
tain these wished-for results. While the attack 
should be furiously waged by the ships from the bay 
and the forces on the shore, the yells of three or 
four hundred savages in the rear, it was calculated, 
would strike the defenders of this fort with such 
panic, as to make them, at the first onset, throw 
down their arms, and clamour for mercy. This be- 
lief was so sanguinely indulged, that obstinate re- 
sistance had never been thought of. Different was 
the reality — instead of triumph, they had met de- 
feat. The only badges of victory they could pre- 
sent their friends, with whom, but a few days before, 
with flattering promises they had parted, were shat- 
tered hulks, that could scarcely keep above the 
water, and decks covered with the dead and 
wounded. 

The three vessels that retired from the contest 
were considerably injured, and with difficulty pro 



178 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

ceeded to sea, leaving 1 Nicholls and Woodbine, 
with their friends and allies, on the shore, to make 
good their retreat, as discretion should permit. 

On the morning of the 14th, Jackson, fearing, 
from every thing he had learned, that an attack 
would be made, had set out in a boat from Mobile, 
to visit Fort Bowyer, examine its situation, and 
have such arrangements made as would add to its 
strength, and obtain that security which its re-estab- 
lishmeut had been designed to effect. He had pro- 
ceeded down the bay, and arrived within a few 
miles of the place, when he met an express from 
Lawrence, bringing intelligence of the enemy's ar- 
rival, and requesting that assistance might, be im- 
mediately sent to his relief. The general, hastening 
back, late at night, despatched a brig, with eighty 
men, under the command of Captain Laval. Not 
being able to reach his point of destination until the 
next day, and finding every place of entrance block- 
ed up by the besiegers, he ran his brig to the land, 
determined to remain there until night, when, under 
cover of its darkness, he hoped to succeed in throw- 
ing into the fort himself and the re-enforcement un- 
der his command. The battle, however, having in 
the mean time commenced, presented new difficul- 
ties, and restrained the execution of his purpose, 
unless he should venture to encounter greater haz- 
ard than prudence seemed to sanction. The Her- 
mes, on being driven from her anchorage, had, 
at the time of her explosion, floated and grounded 
in a direction, which, from the position she occupied, 
placed her immediately in the rear of the foit. 
This circumstance well accounted for the mistake 
with which he was impressed, and led Captain La- 
val to suppose that his brave countrymen had all 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 179 

perished. Believing they would now attempt to 
carry his vessel, he set sail for Mobile, and report 
ed to the commanding general the loss. Jackson 
declared it was impossible ; that he had heard the 
explosion, and was convinced it was on the water, 
and not on the shore. Perhaps his great anxiety, 
more than any reality, had constituted this refined 
difference in sound. If, however, the disasters were 
as it was reported, his own situation being thereby 
rendered precarious, something was necessary to 
be done to repair the loss, and regain a place for 
many reasons too important to be yielded. His 
principal fears were, lest the strength of the enemy 
should be greatly increased, before his expected 
re-enforcements could arrive, who would be enabled 
to extend his inroads, and paralyze the zeal of the 
country. It was not a time for much deliberation 
as to the course most advisable to be pursued. He 
determined, at all hazard, to retake the fort ; and 
to that end a general order was issued for the de- 
parture of the troops. Every thing was nearly in 
readiness, when a despatch arrived from Lawrence, 
proclaiming the pleasing intelligence, that all was 
safe, and that the enemy, vanquished, had retired. 

The conduct displayed by the officers and soldiers 
of this garrison is worthy to be remembered. With 
troops wholly undisciplined, and against an enemy 
ten times more numerous than themselves, so fear- 
lessly contending, is a circumstance so flattering? 
that we cannot wish our country better, than that 
the future defenders of her honour, and violated 
rights, may be as sensibly alive to their duty. 

The British had now retired to Pensacola, tc dis- 
pose of their wounded, refit their vessels, and be 
ready, as soon as circumstances would permit, to 



180 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

make, peihaps, another descent, on some less guard- 
ed point. So long as this, their only place of refuge 
on the southern coast, was left in their possession, 
it was impossible to calculate on the consequences 
that might arise. The commanding general enter- 
tained a suspicion that this was merely a feint, and 
that the object of their wishes, so soon as a suffi- 
cient force should arrive, would be New Orleans. 
At this place he believed his presence most mate- 
rial, to guard the important passes to the city, and 
to concert some plan of general defence. 

Jackson and his government had ever viewed 
this subject in very different lights : they were not 
willing to risk any act which might involve the pos- 
sibility of a contest with Spain, for the sake of re- 
moving what they considered an unimportant griev- 
ance : he thought it of more serious import, and 
did not believe it could afford even a pretext for 
rupture between the two nations. If Spain, through 
her agents, gave assistance to our enemy, or en- 
couraged a power with whom she was at peace to 
be thus annoyed, she deserved to be placed herself 
on the list of enemies, and treated accordingly. If, 
however, Great Britain, taking advantage of the 
defenceless state of her province, claimed to have 
free egress, in exclusion of her authority, she could 
have no well-founded cause of complaint against 
the injured power, which should claim to hold it, 
until such time as, by bringing a sufficient force, 
she might be in a situation to support her neutral 
ity, and enforce obedience. Upon either ground, 
he believed it might be sufficiently justified. There 
was one, however, on which it could be placed, 
where he well knew nothing could result, beyond 
his own injury ; and on this issue he was willing to 



LIFE OP GENERAL ACKSON. 181 

trust it. If any complaint should be made, his gov 
ernment, having- never extended to him any author 
ity, might, with propriety, disavow the act ; and, 
by exposing him to punishment, would offer an 
atonement for the outrage ; and Spain, in justice, 
could demand no more. The attack on Mobile 
Point was a confirmation of his previous conjectures, 
as to the views of the enemy ; and from that mo- 
ment lie determined to advance and reduce Pensa 
cola, throw a sufficient force into the Barrancas, 
hold them until the principles of right and neutral- 
ity were better respected, and rest the measure on 
his own responsibility. Believing this the only 
course calculated to assure ultimate security, he 
decided with firmness, and resolved to execute his 
intentions so soon as General Coffee should arrive, 
with the volunteers, from Tennessee. 

It was now generally accredited, that a very 
considerable force would shortlv sail from England, 
destined to act against some part of the United 
States ; where, none could tell ; rumour fixed its 
destination for New Orleans. The importance of 
this place was well known to our enemy; it was 
the key to the entire commerce of the western 
country. Had a descent been made a few months 
before, it might have been taken with all imagina- 
ble ease ; but the British had indulged the belief, 
that they could possess it at any time, without dif- 
ficulty. England and France having ended their 
long-pending controversy, it was presumed that 
the French people of Louisiana, alive to the great 
benefits the English had conferred upon their na- 
tive country, — benefits that prostrated her liberty, 
and which have sunk her, perhaps, in eternal sla- 
very, — would, on their first appearance, hail their do 
16 



182 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

liverers, and become their vassals. Independent of 
this, they imagined the black population would af 
ford them the means of exciting insurrection, and 
deluging the country in blood. Whether a resort 
to this kind of warfare, which involves the deepest 
wretchedness, and equally exposes to ruin the in- 
nocent as the guilty, — the female as the soldier, — i 
should be sanctioned by a nation professing a high 
sense of moral feeling ; or whether a nation that 
adopts such a system merits countenance from the 
civilized world, are questions on which we should 
not fear the decision even of an Englishman, could 
he but divest himself of that animosity which, from 
infancy, he learns to entertain for the Americans. 

The expected re-enforcements were announced. 
General Coffee with his brigade had arrived at the 
Cut-off, no* far from Fort SSt. Stephens, on the Mo • 
bile river. In addition to the force with which he 
commenced his march, he had been strengthened 
by the arrival of others, who had overtaken him at 
this place ; so that his whole number was now about 
twenty-eight hundred. To make the necessary ar- 
rangements for an immediate march, General Jack- 
son, on the 26th day of October, repaired to Coffee's 
camp. A dependence on himself to further the 
objects of the government, and the cause of the 
country, had .been his constant lot from the com- 
mencement of his military career ; and a similar 
resort, or failure to the enterprise, was now to be 
assayed. Money was wanted — the quarter-masters 
were destitute of funds, and the government credit 
was insufficient to procure the necessary means to 
change the position of an army : thus situated, 
with his own limited funds, and loans effected on 
his responsibility, lie succeeded in carrying his 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 1S3 

plans into effect, and in hastening his army to the 
place of its destination. 

The difficulty of subsisting cavalry on the route 
rendered it necessary that part of the brigade 
should proceed on foot. Although they had volun- 
teered in the service as mounted men, and expected 
that no different disposition would be made of them, 
yet they cheerfully acquiesced in the order : and 
one thousand, abandoning their horses to subsist as 
they could on the reeds that grew along the river 
bottoms, prepared to commence the march. Being 
supplied with rations for the trip, on the 2d day 
of November the line of march was taken up, and 
Pensacola was reached on the 6th. The British 
and Spaniards had obtained intelligence of their 
approach and intended attack ; and every thing 
was in readiness to dispute their passage to the 
town. The forts were garrisoned, and prepared 
for resistance ; batteries formed in the principal 
streets ; and the British vessels moored within the 
bay, and so disposed as to command the main en- 
trances which led into Pensacola. 

The American army, consisting of the greater 
part of Coffee's brigade, the regulars, and a few 
Indians, in all about three thousand men, had ar- 
rived within a mile and a half of this rallying point 
for our enemies, and formed their encampment. 
Before any final step was taken, the general con- 
cluded to make a further application to the gov- 
ernor, and to learn of him what course at the 
present moment he would make it necessary for 
him to pursue. To take possession of Pensacola, 
and disiodge the British, was indispensable : to do 
it under such circumstances, however, as should 
impress the minds of the Spaniards with a convc- 



1?^ LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

tion, that the invasion of their territory was a 
measuie resorted to from necessity, not choice, 
and from no disposition to violate their neutral 
rights, was believed to be essentiaL It was ren- 

red the more so, on the part of Jackson, because 
a measure of his own, and not directed by his s:ov- 
eminent. Previously, he determined once more to 
try the eifect of negotiation, that he might ascertain 
corr:, :'_;.- how fir the governor felt disposed to 
praseroe a good understanding between the two 
govemme: 

Major Piere, of the forty-fourth regiment, was 
accordingly despatched with a iiag, to disclose the 
objects intended to be attained by the visit, and to 
require that the different forts, Barrancas, St. R u 
and St. Michael, should be immediately surren- 
dered, to be garrisoned by the United States, until 
Spain, by furnishing a sufficient force, might be 
: to protect the province, and preserve unim- 
paired her neutral character. He was charged by 
the general with a candid statement of his views, 
and instructed to require of the governor a deci- 
sive declaration of the course intended. 

Tuis mission experienced no very favourable re- 
sult. Major Piere, on approaching St. Michael's, 
was fired on. and compelled to return. Whether 
were cone by the Spaniards their. .or by 

s and friends, was not a material Liquiry 
The S* . . . . j was lis] .ayed on the fort, and 
- it the : 'rage was committed ; though it was 
a fact well ascertained, that, until the day. before, 
the British flacr had been also associated : this, on 
the arrival of Jackson, had been removed, and the 
colours of Spain left, which were designed to afford 
protection to oar enemies, and a pretext for every 



LIFE OF GEXEBAL JACKS'.!*. 13? 

Injury This conduct, so unprovoked, and so di- 
rectly in opposition to the principles of civilized 
warfare, might have well determined the genera] 
to abstain from further forbearance, and to proc ] 
immediately to the accomplishment of his 
but a consciously as, I at although the reduction of 
this place was required by circumstances of the 
nighest necessity, yet, fearing it might be blazoned 
to his prejudice, and p - tariy that it might be- 

e a cause of national difficulty, he i rag t :>ropted 
to act with every possible caution. Determining, 
therefore, to understand the governor fully, previous- 
ly to proceeding to extremities, he again despatched 
a letter to him, not by any of his officers, — for. 
such perfidy, he was unwilling, and felt it unsafe, to 
risk them, — but sh corporal, who had t 

;-n on the route the day before. By him it was 
required to be known, why the former application 
which had been made. 1 1 of being" met toitfa a 

becoming spirit of conciliation, had been insulted. 
In a r, he received from the governor a connr 

/nation of the opinion he had previously entertained, 
that what had been done was not properly chargea- 
ble on him, but the English: that he had no agency 
in the transaction of which he complained, and 
assured him of his perfect willingness to receive 
any overtures he might be pleased to make. T_. .? 
was joyful tidings : and no time was to be lost in 
meeting the offer. If negotiation should place in 
his hands the different fortresses, before informa- 
tion of it could be had by the British shipping 
lyinnr in the bay, the outward channel would be 

:tually stopped, and the means of their escape 
entirely cut off. Major Piere was sent off, at a 
late hour of the night, to detail to the governor 
16* 



186 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

reasons which had rendered the present descent 
proper ; and to insist on the conditions already 
noticed, as alone calculated to assure safety to the 
United States, and give protection to the provinces 
of Florida. He was particularly instructed to im- 
press on his consideration the most friendly senti- 
ments, and to assure him that a re-surrender would 
be made so soon as Spain, by the arrival of a suf- 
ficient force, could protect her territory from the 
inroads of a power at war with the United States ; 
and which, through an opening thus afforded to a 
violation of the neutrality of Spain, was enabledj 
and had already done her considerable injury. In 
his communication to the governor, he remarks, " 1 
come not as the enemy of Spain ; not to make war. 
but to ask for peace ; to demand security for my 
country, and that respect to which she is entitled, 
and must receive. My force is sufficient, and my 
determination taken, to prevent a future repetitios 
of the injuries she has received. I demand, there- 
fore, the possession of the B-arrancas, and other for 
tifications, with all your munitions of war. If de 
livered peaceably, the whole will be receipted for, 
and become the subject of future arrangement by 
our respective governments ; while the property, 
laws, and religion of your citizens shall be respect- 
ed. But if taken by an appeal to arms, let the blood 
of your subjects be upon your own head. I will not 
hold myself responsible for the conduct of my en 
raged soldiers. One hour is given you for delib 
eration. when your determination must be had. 1 ' 

The council was called, and the propositions made 
considered, when the conclusion was taken that 
they could not be acceded to. As soon as the an- 
swer was received, showing that nothing peaceably 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 18~ 

could be effected, Jackson resolved to urge his army 
forward ; and, immediately commencing his matv.h, 
proceeded to the accomplishment of his object, de- 
termined to effect it, in despite of consequences. 

Early on the morning of the 7th, the army was 
in motion. To foster the idea, that he would inarch 
and reach the town along the road on which he was 
encamped, a detachment of five hundred men was 
sent forward, with orders to show themselves in this 
direction, that they might deceive the enemy ; while, 
urging rapidly on, with the strength of his army, 
he was gaining Pensacola at a different point. This 
stratagem succeeded : the British, looking for his 
appearance where the detachment was seen, had 
formed their vessels across the bay, and were wait- 
ing his approach, with their guns properly bearing : 
nor had they an intimation to the contrary, until our 
troops were descried upon the beach,, on the east 
side, where they were at too great a distance to be 
annoyed from the flotilla ; and whence, pushing for- 
ward, they were presently in the streets, and under 
cover of the houses. 

One company, from the third regiment of infan- 
try, with two field pieces, formed the advance, led 
by Captain Laval, who fell, severely wounded, while, 
at the head of his command, he was char<rino- a 
Spanish battery, formed in the street. The left col- 
umn, composed of the regular troops, the third, 
thirty-ninth, and forty-fourth regiments, headed by 
Majors Woodruff and Picre, formed the left, next 
the bay. The dismounted volunteers proceeded 
down the street, next the regulars : Coffee's brig- 
ade next, on their right : the Mississippi dragoons, 
commanded by Colonel Hinds, and the Choctaw In- 
dians by Major Blue, of the thirty-ninth, advanced 



185 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

on the extreme right of all. Captain Laval's party, 
although deprived of their leader, moved forward, 
and, at the point of the bayonet, took possession of 
the battery in their front. So quickly was this ef- 
fected*, that the Spaniards had it in their power to 
make but three fires, before they were forced to 
abandon it. From behind the houses and garden 
fences were constant volleys of musketry discharg- 
ed, until the regulars, arriving, met the Spaniards, 
and drove them from their positions. The gover- 
nor, trembling for the safety of his city, and remem- 
bering the declaration of the general, that, if driven 
to extremes, he should not hold himself responsi- 
ble for his enraged soldiers, hastened, bearing a flag 
in his hand, to find the commander to stay the car- 
nage. He was met by Colonels Williamson and 
Smith, at the head of the dismounted troops, when, 
with faltering speech, he entreated that mercy might 
be extended, and promised to consent to whatevei 
terms might be demanded of him. 

General Jackson had stopped for a moment at 
the place where Laval had fallen, and was at this 
time in the rear. Receiving information that an 
offer had been made by the governor to comply 
with every demand heretofore made on him, lie has- 
tened to the intendant house, and obtained a confir- 
mation of what had previously been communicated 
to him, that the town arsenals, and munitions of 
war, and in fact whatever was required, should im- 
mediately be surrendered. 

The British vessels remained in the bay : with 
the aid of their boats, by which a nearer situation 
was obtained, they continued to fire upon our troops, 
as, passing along the principal streets, they could 
got them in the range of their guns. Lieutenant 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 189 

Call, perceiving some of their boats attempting to 
occupy a more advantageous position, advanced to 
the beach with a single piece of artillery, where, 
suddenly unmasking himself from a hill, uncovered, 
he commenced a brisk and well-aimed fire, which 
drove them back to a respectful distance. 

No time was lost by General Jackson in procur- 
ing what was considered by him of vital impor- 
tance — the surrender of the forts. Although great- 
er benefits would have been derived, had the suc- 
cess of negotiation placed them privately in his 
hands, without its being previously known to his 
enemies, yet even now their possession was not to 
be neglected. Their occupancy was necessary 
still to his own security — to check any design that 
might be in agitation. What was the force oppos- 
ed to him, at what moment re-enforcements might 
appear off Pensacola, and thereby give an entire 
change to things, as they at present existed, were 
matters of which no certain idea could be formed. 
To possess the Barrancas was a consideration of 
the first importance ; still, until the town and its 
fortresses were secured, it was improper to with- 
draw the army. 

Notwithstanding the assurances given by the gov- 
ernor, that all differences would be accommodated, 
and every thing insisted on agreed to, Fort St. Mi- 
chael was still withheld. Captain Dinkins was or- 
dered to take post on Mount St. Bernard, form his 
batteries, and reduce it. He was in a situation to 
act, when the commandant, Colonel Sotto, ordered 
his flag taken down, and the fort to be surrendered. 

It is curious to observe the treachery of the 
Spaniards, and the unpardonable method they took 
to indulge their spleen. Previously to striking his 



190 LTFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

colours, the commandant at St. Michael had asked 
permission to discharge his guns ; to this there 
could be no objection, and the indulgence was readi- 
ly extended ; but, faithles-s and cowardly, he level- 
led and fired his pieces, charged with grape, at a 
party of dragoons and Choctaw Indians, who were 
at a small distance, which killed three horses and 
wounded two men. Such unpardonable conduct, 
independent of other injuries already noticed, might 
have justified any treatment ; the destruction of the 
garrison would not have been an unmerited chas- 
tisement. The general was on his way to Mount 
St. Bernard, where his artillery wa3 planted, when 
ne received intelligence of what had been done. 
He determined no longer to confide in persons so 
faithless, and whose only object seemed to deceive, 
but at once to make the sword the arbiter between 
them. His cannon were already turned towards 
the fort, the resolution taken to batter it down, 
when it was announced, by the officer he had left 
in command at Pensacola, that the capitulation had 
been agreed on, and a surrender would be made in 
half an hour. Sensible of the delicate situation in 
which he was placed, he forbore to obey that im- 
pulse their unwarrantable conduct had so justly ex- 
cited, and forthwith despatched Captain Dinkins to 
insist on an immediate delivery ; at the same time 
giving him directions to carry it by storm if the de- 
mand was not instantly complied with. 

Difficulties promised thus peaceably to terminate. 
The day was far spent, and the general greatly in- 
disposed : until the next morning, no step could be 
taken to obtain possession of the Barrancas. On 
the credit of the governor's promises, made first on 
r entrance mto the town, the principal part of 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 191 

the army had been ordered a short distance out. 
Understanding, at St. Bernard, that what had been 
required would be done, and that no further delay 
would be met, the general had set out to the en- 
campment, leaving Major Piere behind, with a suf- 
ficient force to preserve every thing in safety and 
quietness. He was astonished, early in the morn- 
ing, to learn, that the officer despatched to St. Mi- 
chael, the preceding evening, had, on his arrival, 
been threatened to be fired on by Colonel Sotto ; 
who, however, yielded possession, on being made to 
understand, that, if the fort were not delivered in- 
stantly, it would be carried forcibly, and the garri- 
son put to the sword. A capitulation was now 
agreed on : Pensacola and the different fortresses 
were to be retained, until Spain could better main- 
tain her authority ; while the rights and privileges 
of her citizens were to be respected. 

Every thing was in readiness, on the following 
day, to take possession of Barrancas Fort. The 
faithless conduct of yesterday had determined Jack- 
son on the executioa of his plans ; nor longer to 
confide in Spaniards' promises, but, on reaching the 
place, to carry it by force, if it were not immediate- 
ly surrendered. Major Piere was ordered to give 
the command of the city to Colonel Hayne, and re- 
port himself at camp, to accompany him on the 
march ; previously, however, to retiring, to require 
of the governor to execute an authority to the com- 
mandant of the fort, to deliver it ; and, in the event 
he would not comply immediately, to arrest him, and 
every public officer, and hold them as prisoners. 
The order for its delivery had been signed, and the 
line of march ready to be taken up, to receive it, 
peaceably, if the order would effect it, forcibly, il 



192 LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. 

not, when a tremendous explosion in that direction, 
followed by two others, in quick succession, excited 
the apprehension that all was destroyed. To as- 
certain, certainly, whence the noise had proceeded, 
Major Gales, a volunteer aid, was despatched, with 
two hundred men, to obtain intelligence. He pres- 
ently returned, and confirmed what had been pre- 
viously apprehended, that the fort was blown up, 
and that the British shipping had retired from the 
bay. 

Although repairing this place might be produc- 
tive of numerous advantages, yet, as the act was 
unauthorized by his government, Jackson felt him- 
self restrained from incurring any expense for the 
re-establishment of what had been thus treacher- 
ously destroyed. Though disappointed in the ob- 
iect he had in view, he believed that some of the 
benefits expected would result. This strong hold, 
which had so long given protection to the southern 
hostile savages, and where they had been excited 
to acts of cruelty, was assailed, and the Indians 
taught that even here safety was not to be found. 
The valour of his troops had impressed on the minds 
of the Spaniards a respect for the character of his 
country, which, hitherto, they had not entertained ; 
and the British, by being dislodged, were prevent- 
ed from maturing those plans, which were to give 
efficacy to their future operations against the south- 
ern section of the Union : but, as the means of 
maintaining and defending it were destroyed, it was 
unnecessary to think of attempting to hold it It 
was accordingly concluded to re-deliver all tha; had 
been surrendered, and retire to Fort Montgomery. 
Jackson was the more disposed to adopt this course 
from a belief that the British who had sailed out of 



LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. 193 

the bay, would probably make their way to Fort 
Bowyer, and, with a knowledge of the principal 
(strength of the army being away, seek to aim a 
blow somewhere on the Mobile. An express was 
immediately hastened to Colonel Sparks, who had 
been left in command at this place, announcing what 
nad transpired, suggesting apprehensions for his 
safety, and notifying him, in the event of an attack, 
to endeavour to parry the danger until the regular 
troops should arrive to support him. 

Two days after entering the town, he abandoned 
it. Previously to retiring, he wrote to Governor 
Manrequez ; and, after stating to him the causes 
which had induced him, justifiably, as he believed, 
to enter his territory, he thus concluded : " As the 
Barrancas and the adjacent fortresses have been 
surrendered to and blown up by the British, con- 
trary to the good faith I had reposed in your prom- 
ises, it is out of my power to guard your neutrali- 
ty, as otherwise I should have done. The enemy 
has retreated ; the hostile Creeks have fled for safe- 
ty to the forest ; and I now retire from your town, 
leaving you to re-occupy your forts, and protect the 
rights of your citizens." 

Our loss in this expedition was quite inconsider- 
able. The left column alone met resistance, and 
had fifteen or twenty wounded — none killed. It 
appears? strange, that three heavy pieces of artille- 
ry, charged with grape and canister, and three times 
fired against a column advancing through a nar- 
row street, should not have effected greater in- 
jury. Of the number wounded was Lieutenant 
Flournoy, a promising young man, who, having gone 
out as a volunteer, was, on account of his merit, 
promoted to a lieutenancy in the forty-fourth United 
17 



194 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

States' regiment. By a cannon shot he lost his leg. 
Captain Laval, being too dangerously injured to be 
removed, was confided by the general to the clem- 
ency of the governor of Pensacola, who humanely 
gave him that attention his situation required. 

The Indian warriors, who had taken refuge in 
Pensacola, finding themselves abandoned by the 
British, fled across the country, and sought safety 
on the Appalachicola: many were afforded shelter 
on board the shipping, from which they were short- 
ly afterwards landed, to prosecute the war in their 
own way. Jackson determined they should have 
no respite from danger, so long as a warlike atti- 
tude was preserved. Recent events had shown 
them, that neither the valour of their allies, nor 
their own exertions, could afford them protection. 
He believed it an auspicious moment to pursue them 
tn their retreat ; increase still further their appre- 
hensions ; and effectually cut up that misplaced con- 
fidence, which had already well nigh proved their 
ruin. Understanding that those who had been car- 
ried off from Pensacola. had been landed on the Ap- 
palachicola, and a depot of all necessary supplies 
there established, Major Blue, of the thirty-ninth 
regiment, was sent off, on the 16th, at the head of 
a thousand mounted men, with orders to follow, and 
destroy any of their villages he might find on his 
route. General M'Intosh, of the Georgia militia, 
then in the Creek country, was apprized of the des- 
tination, and directed to co-operate, that the sav- 
ages might be dispersed, before they should have 
it in their power to attempt hostilities against the 
frontiers. Having effected this object, they were 
ordered to repair to Mobile, to aid in its defence. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 195 

Shortly after the American army had retired, the 
Spaniards commenced rebuilding Forts Barrancas 
and St. Rose. Anxious to regain that confidence 
they had justly forfeited, the British offered their 
services to assist in the re -establishment. This of- 
fer was refused, and an answer returned by the 
governor, that, when assistance was in fact needed, 
he would make application to his friend General 
Jackson. 

There was nothing- now so much desired by the 
general, as to be able to depart for New Orleans 
where he apprehended the greatest danger. He 
had already effected a partial security for Mobile, 
and the inhabitants on its borders ; and such as he 
believed might be preserved, by proper vigilance in 
those who were left in command. He determined 
to set out on the 22d for the Mississippi ; and, by 
his exertions, seek to place the country in such 
a situation for defence as the means within his 
reach would permit. His health was still delicate, 
which almost wholly unfitted him for the duties he 
had to encounter ; but his constant expectation of a 
large force appearing soon on the coast impelled 
him to action. Added to the fatigues incident to 
his station, he as yet had no brigadier-general in his 
district to relieve him of many of those duties which 
he had neither time nor bodily strength to meet 
General Winchester had been ordered to join 
him. He had not yet arrived, but was daily look- 
ed for. In expectation of his approach, Jackson 
was making every necessary arrangement for in- 
vesting him with the command of Mobile, and for 
his own departure. Colonel Hayne, the inspector- 
general, was despatched to the mouth of the Missis- 
sippi, to examine whether in that direction there 



196 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

were any eligible site, where, by erecting batter- 
ies, the river might be commanded, and an ascent 
prevented, if through this route attempted. Gene- 
ral Coffee and Colonel Hinds, with the dragoons 
from the territory, were ordered to march with their 
commands, and take a position as convenient to 
New Orleans as they could obtain a sufficiency of 
forage to recruit their horses. Every thing being 
arranged, and intelligence received that General 
Winchester had reached the Alabama river, Jack- 
son, on the 22d day of November, left Mobile for 
the city of New Orleans, where he arrived on the 
1st of December; and where his head-quarters 
were, for the present, established. 




LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 197 



CHAPTER VIII. 

Jackson's correspondence vith the governor of Louisiana. — His 
aadress iO the citizens. — Militia from Tennessee and Kentucky 
advance ; and genera/ plans adopted for defence. — Plan for fit 
ing delinquencies in the amty. — British shipjang arrive on ilu 
coast. — Loss of tiie Sea Llorse. — Battle on the lake, and loss Oj 
the gun-boats. — Jackson reviews the militia. — His address to 
them. — Detention of his fog. — Anecdote. — Expresses sent tc 
Generals Coffee and Carroll. — Declaration of martial law at 
New Orleans. — The British effect a landing, and Jackson pre- 
pares to meet tliem. 

General Jackson was now on a new theatre : the 
time had arrived to call forth all his energies. His 
military career, from its commencement, had been 
obstructed, but far greater difficulties were now ris- 
ing. His body worn down by exhaustion, with a mind 
alive to the apprehension, that the means given him 
would not satisfy his own wishes and the expecta- 
tions of his country, were circumstances calculated 
to depress him. He was without sufficient strength 
or preparation to attempt successful opposition 
against well-trained troops, which were expected 
at some unprepared point. 

Louisiana, he well knew, was ill supplied with 
arms, and contained a mixed population, of different 
tongues, who, perhaps, felt not a sufficient attach- 
ment for the soil or government, to be induced to 
defend them. No troops, arms or ammunition had 
yet descended from the states of Kentucky and 
Tennessee. His only reliance for defence, if sud- 
denly assailed, was on a few regulars, the volun- 
teers of General Coffee, and such troops as the 
state could furnish. What might be the final re 
17* 



198 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

suit of tilings was not a matter difficult to conjee 
ture. His principal fears at present were, that 
Mobile might fall, the leil bank of the Mississippi 
be Grained, all communication with the western states 
cut otf, and New Orleans be thus unavoidably re- 
duced. Although agitated by such forebodings, he 
breathed his fears to none. Closely locking all 
apprehensions in his own breast, he appeared con- 
stantly serene, and as constantly endeavoured to 
impress a general belief, that the country could and 
would be defended. 

While engaged in his operations on the Mobile, 
and even while at Fort Jackson, he had kept up a 
correspondence with the governor of Louisiana, 
uroinjr him to the adootion of such measures as 
might give security to the state. From his informa- 
tion, he felt assured, that little reliance was to be 
placed on the great body of the citizens ; and that, 
to gain any decisive advantages from their services, 
it would be necessary to abandon temporizing pol- 
icy, and pursue a course steady and unwavering. 
Many of the inhabitants indulging a belief that 
Florida would be restored to Spain, had led well 
designing men astray : while Englishmen, Span- 
iards, and other foreigners, feeling no attachment to 
the government under which they lived, were ready 
to surrender it to any power. The requisition 
made had been badly filled ; many had refused, af- 
ter beino- drafted, to enter the ranks. At so event- 
ful a crisis, it was painful to discover so great a 
want of union, and disregard of duty 

Governor Claiborne had been addressed on this 
subject: "I regret," said Jackson, " to hear of the 
discontents of your people: they must not exist. 
Whoever is not for us, is against us. Those who are 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 199 

drafted mu-st be compelled to the ranks, or punish- 
ed : it is no time to balance : the country must be 
defended ; and he who refuses to aid, when called 
on, must be treated with severity. To repel the 
danger with which we are assailed, requires all 
our energies, and all our exertions. With union 
on our side, we shall be able to drive our invaders 
back to the ocean. Summon all your energy, and 
guard every avenue with confidential patroles, for 
spies and traitors are swarming around. Numbers 
will be flocking to your city, to gain information, 
and corrupt your citizens. Every aid in your power 
must be given to prevent vessels sailing with pro- 
visions. By us the enemy must not be fed. Let 
none pass ; for on this will depend our safety, until 
we can get a competent force in the field, to oppose 
attack, or to become the assailants. We have more 
to dread from intestine, than open and avowed ene- 
mies: but vigilance on our side, and all will be 
eafe. Remember, our watch word is victory or 
death. Our country must and shall be defended. 
We will enjoy our liberty, or perish in the last 
ditch." 

He forwarded an address to the people of Louisi- 
ana, to excite them to a defence of their rights and 
liberties, and to raise in their minds an abhorreuce 
of an enemy. He pointed out the course the pres- 
ent crisis required them to adopt, and entreated 
them not to be lured from their fidelity. 

" Your government, Louisianians, is engaged in 
a just and honourable contest, for the security of 
your individual, and her national rights. The only 
country on earth, where man enjoys freedom, where 
its blessings are alike extended to the poor and 






£00 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

rich, calls on you to protect her from the grasping 
usurpation of Britain: — she will not call in vain 
I know that every man, whose bosom beats high at 
the proud title of freeman, will promptly obey her 
voice, and rally round the eagles of his country 
resolved to rescue her from impending danger, or 
nobly to die in her defence. He who refuses to 
defend his rights, when called on by his govern- 
ment, deserves to be a slave — deserves to be 
punished as an enemy to his country — a friend to 
her foes." 

The people of Louisiana were gradually turned 
to consider the contest, in which it was expected 
they were to be engaged, that they might be pre- 
pared to meet it, when necessary. Preparations 
for collecting, in sufficient strength, to repel an in- 
vasion, when it should be attempted, had been car- 
ried actively forward. The fiat of the secretary 
of war had been issued to the governors of the ad- 
joining states ; and Jackson had long since anx- 
iously pressed them to hasten the execution of the 
order, and push their forces to the place of danger. 
The ardour felt by the governor of Tennessee 
rendered any incentive unnecessary. He was well 
aware of the importance of activity, and had used 
all the authority of his office to call the requisition 
forth, and have it in readiness. 

Governor Shelby, of Kentucky, had been no less 
vigilant. The necessity of despatch in military 
matters, and the advantages resulting from it, in his 
youth and more advanced age, lie had learned in 
the field of battle. The troops from his state were 
immediately organized, placed under the com- 
mand of Major-General Thomas, and directed *q 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 201 

proceed down the Ohio.* It may be esteemed a 
circumstance of good fortune, that Shelby should 
have been the chief magistrate of Kentucky ; a 
state possessing ample resources, and which might 
have slumbered in inaction, but for the energy of 
him. He did not remain contented with a dis- 
charge merely of those duties which were imposed 
on him by his office ; but, feeling the ardour of his 
youth revived, excited his citizens, and inspirited 
them by his own example. ' The promptitude with 
which they crowded to the American standard, at 
the first danger, enduring cold, hunger, and priva- 
tion, should be remembered, and entitle her*citizens 
to the gratitude of the country. 

William Carroll, who, on the promotion of Jack- 
son in the army of the United States, had been ap- 
pointed a major-general of Tennessee militia, was 
to command the requisition intended to be marched 
from the state. He had issued orders to his divi- 
sion, and, on the 19th of November, twenty-five 
hundred of the yeomanry of the state appeared at 
Nashville, and, in eight days, embarked on board 
their boats for New Orleans. To the industry of 
General Carroll every respect is due ; for, to his 
fortunate arrival, as will be seen hereafter, is to be 
attributed the reason that success did not result to 
the enemy, in his first assault, or that Louisiana 
escaped the impending danger. 

The militia, now organized, from two states, 
were respectable for their numbers, and were com- 

* When this requisition was ready to proceed, the state of the 
quarter-master's department was discovered to be wholly inade- 
quate to those outfits and supplies necessary to its departure. 
Thus situated, individuals of me state came forward, pledged 
their funds, and enabled it to advance. 



2C2 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

manded by officers who carried with them entire 
confidence In bravery, they were not surpassed ; 
yet they were without experience or discipline, and 
indifferently armed. Many had procured muskets 
and bayonets ; though the greater part of them had 
arms capable of rendering little or no service ; 
while some had none at all. To remedy their want 
of discipline was attended with some difficulty, on 
account of the slender means afforded for instruc- 
tion, while, in boats, they were descending the river. 
Carroll's anxiety, however, for the respectable ap- 
pearance of his troops, and a . still stronger desire 
entertained, that they might be in a situation for 
immediate action, if necessity, on his arrival, should 
require it, led him to seize even on the limited 
opportunities for improvement. 

Although General Jackson had obtained his sue- 
cesses heretofore with troops of this description, yet 
he was far from entertaining a belief they could be 
relied on for manoeuvring in an open field, against 
troops inured to war. None knew better the point of 
exertion to which militia could be strained. In a 
letter to the secretary of war, of the 20th of Novem- 
ber, 1814, he observes, "Permit me to suggest a 
plan, which, on a fair experiment, will do away or 
lessen the expenses, under the existing mode of call- 
ing militia forces into the field. Whenever there 
happens to be a deficiency in the regular force, in 
any particular quarter, let the government determine 
on the necessary number: this should be apportioned 
among the different states, agreeably to their respec- 
tive representations, and called into service for, and 
during the war. The quota wanted will, in my 
opinion, be soon raised from premiums offered by 
those who are subject to militia duty, rather than be 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 203 

harassed by repeated drafts. In the mean time, let 
the present bounty, given by the government, be also 
continued. If this be done, I will ensure that an 
effective force shall soon appear in every quarter, 
amply sufficient for the reduction of Canada, and 
to drive all our enemies from our shores." 

Such were the course of things, and such the 
plans in progress for the safety of the country, 
when the general reached New Orleans. 

The legislature of Louisiana had for some weeks 
been in session ; and, through the governors com- 
munication, informed of the situation, condition and 
strength of the country, and of the necessity of 
calling all its resources into operation ; but, balanc- 
ing in their decisions, and uncertain of the best 
course to be pursued, they, as yet, had resolved 
upon nothing. The arrival of Jackson, however, 
produced a new aspect in affairs. His activity in 
preparation, and his reputation as a brave and skil- 
ful commander, had turned all eyes towards him, 
and inspired even the desponding with confidence. 

The volunteer corps of the city were reviewed, 
and a visit, in person, made to the different forts, 
to ascertain their capacity for defence, and the re- 
liance that might be had on them to repel the ene- 
my's advance. Through the lakes large vessels 
could not pass : should an approach be attempted 
through this route, in their barges, it might be 
opposed by the gun-boats which guarded this pas- 
sage ; but if, unequal to the contest, they should be 
captured, it would give timely information of a 
descent, which might be resisted at their landing, 
and before any opportunity could be had of execut- 
ing fully their designs. Up the Mississippi, how- 
ever, was looked upon as the most probable pass, 



204 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

through which might be made an attempt to reach 
the city; and here were in progress suitable prep- 
arations for defence. 

We have already noticed, that Colonel Hayne 
nad been despatched from Mobile with directions to 
view the Mississippi near its mouth, and report it 
any advantageous position could be found for the 
erection of batteries ; and whether the re-establish- 
ment of the old fort at the Balize would command 
the river, in a way to prevent its being ascended. 
That it could not be relied on for this purpose, the 
opinions of military men had already declared 
General Jackson was disposed to respect the de- 
cisions of those who were entitled to confidence , 
yet, in matters of great importance, it formed no 
part of his creed to attach his faith to the state- 
ments of any, where, the object being within his 
reach, it was in his power to look to the fact, and 
satisfy himself. Trusting implicitly in Colonel 
Hayne as a military man, he had despatched him 
thither to examine how far it was practicable to 
obstruct and secure this channel. His report was 
confirmatory of the previous information received, 
that it was incapable, from its situation, of effecting 
any such object. 

Fort St. Philip was now resorted to as the lowest 
point on the river where the erection of a fortifica- 
tion could be at all serviceable. The general had 
returned to New Orleans on the 9th, from a visit 
to this place, which he had ordered to be repaired. 
The commanding officer was directed to remove 
every combustible material without the fort; to 
have two additional platforms immediately raised; 
and the embrasures so enlarged that the ordnance 
might have the greatest possible sweep upon their 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 205 

circles, and be brought to bear on any object within 
their range, that might approach either up or down 
the river. At a small distance below, the Mississip- 
pi, changing its course, left a neck of land, in the 
bend, covered with timber, which obstructed the 
view. From this point down to where old Fort 
Bourbon stood, on the west side, the growth along 
the bank was ordered to be cut away, that the shot 
from St. Philip, ranging across this point of land, 
might reach an approaching vessel before she should 
be unmasked from behind it. On the site of Bour- 
bon was to be thrown up a strong work, defended 
by five twenty-four pounders, which, with the fort 
above, would be calculated to expose an enemy to 
a cross fire, for half a mile. A mile above St. 
Philip was to be established a work, which, in con- 
junction with the others, would effectually command 
the river for two miles. At Terre au Bceuf, and at 
the English Turn, twelve miles below the city, were 
also to be taken measures for defence ; where it 
was expected by Jackson, with his flying artillery 
and fire ships, he would be able certainly to arrest 
the enemy's advance. This system of defence, 
properly established, he believed, would ensure se- 
curity from any attack in this direction. Fort St. 
Philip, with the auxiliary batteries above and below 
it, would so concentrate their fires, that an enemy 
could never pass without suffering greatly, and, per- 
haps, being so shattered that they would fall an 
easy prey to those defences which were still higher 
up the river. The essential difficulty was to have 
them speedily finished. On returning, ha hastened 
to apprize the governor of his views, and of his 
arrangements, and entreated him to aid in their 
furtherance. It was proposed to submit it to the 
18 



206 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

consideration of the legislature, and to prevail, if 
possible, with the planters to furnish their slaves, 
by whom, alone, such work could, in so insalubrious 
a climate, be safely executed. "If what is pro- 
posed be performed," said he, "I will stand pledged 
that the invaders of your state shall never, through 
this route, reach your city." He desired to be in- 
formed, early, of the success of the application, 
and to know how far the legislature would be dis- 
posed to extend their fostering care to the objects 
suggested ; that, in the event of failure, he might 
have recourse to such resources as were within his 
reach. " But," added he, " not a moment is to be 
lost. With energy and expedition, all is safe : — 
delay, and all is lost." 

The plans of operation and defence were pro- 
jecting on an extensive scale. The only objects of 
fear were the disaffected who infested the city : 
and to these, after the most incessant exertions, he 
had well nigh fallen a victim. 

On Lakes Borgne and Pontchartrain an equally 
strong confidence was had that all would be safe 
from invasion. Commodore Patterson, who com- 
manded the naval forces, had executed every order 
with promptness. Agreeably to instructions from 
the general, to extend to all the passes on the lakes 
every protection in his power, he had sent out the 
gun-boats, under Lieutenant Jones. From their 
capability to defend, great advantages were calcu- 
lated to arise ; added to which, the Rigolets, the 
communication between the two lakes, was defend- 
ed by Petit Coquille Fort, a strong work, under the 
command of Captain Newman, which, when acting 
in conjunction with the gun-boats, it was supposed, 
would be competent to repel any assault. Guards 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 207 

and videttes were also posted in different directions 
to give the earliest information of every thing- that 
passed. In despite, however, of these precaution 
ary measures, treachery opened a way, and pointed 
the entrance of the enemy to a narrow pass, 
through which they effected a landing, and reached, 
previously to being discovered, the banks of the 
Mississippi. 

Such were the measures adopted for the protec- 
tion of Louisiana against an attack. Information 
Df a considerable force having left England filled 
with high expectations, the attack on Fort Bow- 
yer, and the inflammatory proclamations alread) 
published, with anonymous letters received from 
persons in the West Indies and Pensacola, tended 
to unfold the views of the enemy, and to dissipate 
every thing of doubt as to their designs. But the 
time was at hand when conjecture was giving 
place to certainty; when the intentions of the in- 
vaders were fully developing themselves, and the 
fact fairly presented, that Louisiana must fall, and 
her principal city be sacked, unless the brave men 
associated to defend her should stand firmly in her 
defence. Certain information was at hand of an 
English fleet being off Cat and Ship Islands, and 
within a short distance of the American lines, 
where their numbers were daily increasing. 

Lieutenant Jones, in command of the gun-boats 
on Lake Borgne, was directed to reconnoitre, and 
ascertain their disposition and force ; and, in the 
event they should attempt, through this route, to 
effect a disembarkation, to retire to the Rigolets, 
and there, with his flotilla, contend to the last. 
He remained off Ship Island until the 12th of De- 
cember, when, understanding the enemy's forces 



208 LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. 

were much increased, he thought it advisable to 
change his anchorage to a position near Malheur- 
eux Island This was rendered necessary, because 
it was a safer position, in the event of being attack- 
ed. Whoever looks upon a map of the country 
will discover the importance of this place if driven 
into action with a greatly superior force. This, 
and Chef Menteur, which unite at the entrance to 
the lake, and form a narrow channel, constitutes 
the only pass into Pontchartrain. By reaching it, 
the gun-boats would be enabled to present a foiyxii- 
dable opposition. 

On the 13th, Jones discovered the enemy mov- 
ing off in his barges towards Pass Christian. His 
orders left him no discretion as to the place he 
should fight them. Indeed, his flotilla, although 
quite inconsiderable, was of too much consequence 
to the nation, at this juncture, to be risked at all, 
unless under circumstances giving a decided supe- 
riority. In no other way was this to be obtained, 
than by reaching the point to which he had been 
ordered : this he endeavoured to effect, as he be- 
came satisfied of what was intended by their move- 
ment. Weighing his anchors, with the design of 
reaching the position referred to in his orders, he 
discovered it to be wholly impracticable. A strong 
wind having blown for some davs to the east, from 
the lake to the gulf, had so reduced the depth of 
water, that the deepest channels were insufficient 
to float his little squadron. The oars were resort- 
ed to, but without rendering the least assistance: 
it was immoveable. Every thing was thrown over- 
board that could be spared, to lighten them ; all, 
however, was ineffectual. At this moment of ex- 
treme peril, the tide coming suddenly in, relieved 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 209 

them from the shoal, and they came to anchor at 
one o'clock the next morning on the west passage 
of Malheureux Isle ; where, at day, they discovered 
the pursuit had been abandoned. 

At the bay of St. Louis was a small depot of 
public stores, which had, that morning, been direct- 
ed, by Jones, to be brought off. Mr. Johnston, on 
board the Sea Horse, proceeded in the execution 
of this order. The enemy, on the retreat of Jones, 
despatched three of their barges to capture him ; 
but, unable to effect it, they were driven back. An 
additional force now proceeded against him ; when 
a smart action commenced, and the assailants were 
again compelled to retire with some loss. John- 
ston, satisfied that it was out of his power to defend 
himself, and considering it hopeless to attempt unit- 
ing, in face of so large a force, with the gun- 
boats off Malheureux Island, blew up his vessel, 
burnt the stores, and effected his retreat by land, 
in conformity to the instructions he had received. 
A prodigious explosion assured Jones of the proba- 
ble step that had been taken, and of the execution 
of the order. 

Early on the morning of the 14th, the enemy's 
barges, about nine miles to the east, suddenly 
weighed their anchors ; and, getting under way, 
proceeded westwardly to the pass, where our gun- 
boats still lay. The same difficulty experienced 
yesterday was now encountered. Perceiving the 
approach of the enemy's flotilla, an attempt was 
made to retreat ; but in vain. The wind was en- 
tirely lulled, and a perfect calm prevailed ; while a 
strong current, setting to the gulf, rendered every 
effort to retire unavailing. No alternative was at 
hand; but a single course was left. — to meet and 
18* 



210 LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON 

fight them. At once the resolution was adopted, 
to avail themselves of the best position they could 
obtain, wait their approach, and defend themselves, 
whilst there was a hope of success. The line was 
formed, with springs on the cables, and all were 
waiting the arrival of a foe, who imagined himself 
advancing to an easy conquest. The contest, in so 
open a situation, and against such superior force, 
promised to be very unequal ; yet the bravery, 
which had always characterized our fearless tars 
in battle, was, on this occasion, not to be tarnished. 
Forty-three boats, mounting as many cannon, 
with twelve hundred chosen men, well armed, con- 
stituted the strength of the assailants. Advancing 
in extended line, they were presently in reach ; and, 
at half after eleven o'clock, commencing a fire, the 
action soon became general. Owing to a strong 
current, setting out to the east, two of the boats, 
numbers 156 and 163, were unable to keep their 
anchorage, and floated about a hundred yards in 
advance of the line. This circumstance was un- 
fortunate ; for, although it was by no means to bo 
calculated, that victory could be attendant on a con- 
flict where strength and numbers were so dispro- 
portionate, yet, could the line have been preserved 
the chances for defence would have been increased, 
the opportunity more favourable for inflicting injury 
and crippling the foe, while the period of the con- 
test would have been protracted. Every momeri 
this could have been prolonged would have proved 
advantageous ; for, soon as the wind should spring 
jp, which yet continued lulled, the boats would be 
more manageable, and an opportunity afforded of 
retiring from the battle whenever the result becamo 
disastrouj. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 211 

The enemy, relying on their numbers, advanced 
in three divisions. Our gun-boats, formed in a line, 
were under command of Lieutenant Jones, who, 
on board No. 156, occupied the centre. No. 162 
and 163 rested on his left, under the direction ot 
Lieutenant Spedden and Sailing-master Ulrich ; on 
his right were No. 5 and 23, commanded by Sailing 
master Ferris and Lieutenant M'lver. The centre 
division of flie enemy, led by the senior officer of 
the expedition, Captain Lockyer, bore down on No. 
156, the centre of our line, and, twice attempting 
to board, was twice repulsed with an immense de- 
struction of both officers and crew, and loss of two 
of their boats, which were sunk : one, a seventy 
four's launch, crowded with men, went down im 
mediately along-side of the gun-boat. Jones, being 
too severely wounded longer to maintain the deck, 
retired, leaving the command with George Parker, 
who no less valiantly defended his flag, until, badly 
wounded, he was also compelled to leave his post ; 
and soon after the boat was carried. No. 163, 
though ably deferred, was also taken ; and the 
guns of both turned on No. 162 and 5, which also 
surrendered ; and, last of all, No. 23, commanded by 
Lieutenant M'lver. Thus in detail was our little 
squadron, after a conflict of nearly an hour, lost; 
a conflict in which every thing was done that gal- 
lantry could do, and nothing unperformed that duty 
required ; but it was a disaster which, under all 
the circumstances, could not be avoided. The 
calm which prevailed, and the unwieldy condition 
of the boats, prevented any management by the 
oars. 

The commandant was ably supported by the offi- 
cers associated with him. Lieutenants Spedden and 



212 LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON* 

M'lver were wounded ; the former in both arms, 
and m one so severely as to be compelled to have 
it amputated ; yet this valiant officer to the last 
continued his orders : nor did the latter quit for a 
moment his post. Midshipmen Cauley and Rey- 
nolds, young men of promise, fell victims to the 
wounds received in this contest. It is unnecessary 
to take up the time of the reader in commendation 
of this Spartan band : their bravery will be long 
remembered, and excite emotions stronger than 
language can paint. The great disparity of force 
between the combatants presents a curious result : 
that, while the American loss was but ten killed, and 
thirty-five wounded, that of their assailants was 
not less than three hundred. The British have 
never presented any report upon this subject: but, 
from every information, and from all the attendant 
circumstances of the battle, it was even believed 
to have exceeded this number ; of which a large 
proportion was officers.* 

The British returned to their shipping, at Cat 
Island, with their prisoners, with a convincing argu- 
ment, to do away the belief which they enter- 
tained, that, in this section of country, the in- 
habitants were waiting, with open arms, to receive 
them. 

This disaster was announced to General Jackson 
while on a visit to the lakes, whither he had gone 
to examine the situation of the different works 



Boats. Men. Gu.ns. 
* The British had 43 1200 43 

The Americans 5 182 23 

Difference 38 1018 20 

So that the disparity in force of hoats, men, and guns, was aa 
eij;)H- -seven — and nearly two to one. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 213 

in progress. He heard it with much concern ; for 
on it important consequences depended. 

His fears for the safety of Mobile were much 
increased. Although he had every confidence in 
the gallant officer who commanded at Fort Bowyer. 
he well knew how inefficient were the exertions oi 
a brave man, when assailed by superior strength 
The security of this place was of great importance. 
His own apprehensions of an invasion here, as af- 
fecting the interest of the lower country, was t& 
him a cause of constant uneasiness. He felt con 
fident, while this point remained safe, so might the 
country adjacent ; but, if it fell, the Indians would 
again be excited, the settlements on the Mobile 
and Alabama rivers become tributary, and New 
Orleans be involved in the general ruin. Deeply 
impressed with the importance of defending this 
place, he had brought to the view of the secretary 
of war the necessity of adopting such a course as 
should place it entirely out of the reach of danger. 
To effect this, he proposed that a large frigate, 
mounting forty-four guns, which, for some cause, 
had been left on the stocks, at Tchifonte, in an un- 
finished state, should be completed. " Let her,'' 
he remarked, " be placed in the Navy Cove, which 
will protect the rear of the fort, and, my life upon 
it, ten thousand troops, and all the British fleet, 
cannot take the place, nor enter the bay. This 
will be their point of attack ; if carried, they will 
penetrate the Indian nation, — there make a stand, 
and incite the ravages to war. and the slaves to in- 
surrection and massacre ; — penetrate, if they can, 
to the left bank of the Mississippi, and arrest all 
communication. If they succeed in this, the lower 
country falls of course." No notice, however, was 



214 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

ever taken of his admonition, and nothing done to 
effect the object proposed. His entire defence and 
safety rested on the means which he could reach. 
An express was despatched to General Winches- 
ter, apprizing him of what had happened ; that, all 
communication being cut off, he must look to the pro- 
curing supplies for his army from Tennessee River 
through the posts established in the Creek country. 
" The enemy," he continues, " will attempt, through 
Pass Huron, to reach you : watch, nor suffer your- 
self to be surprised ; haste, and throw sufficient sup- 
plies iiito Fort Bowyer, and guard vigilantly the 
communication from Fort Jackson, lest it be de- 
stroyed. Mobile Point must be supported and de- 
fended at every hazard. The enemy has given ua 
a large coast to guard ; but I trust, with the smiles 
of Heaven, to be able to meet and defeat him at 
every point he may venture his foot upon the land." 

Increased vigilance was now required to guard 
the different routes through which they might make 
their progress, and reach the object of their visit 
Major Lacoste, commanding the battalion of colour 
ed troops, was ordered, with two pieces of cannon 
and a sufficient force, to defend the Chef Menteur 
road, that led from the head of Lake Borgne to New 
Orleans. In fact, wherever an inlet or creek, of 
the smallest size, justified the belief, that through 
it an entrance might be effected, arrangements 
were made to prevent approach. Through the Rigo- 
lets was presumed the most probable route the 
enemy would adventure, that, by gaining LakePont- 
chartrain, a landing might be made above or below 
the city, or at Bayou St. John, directly opposite. 

This pla^e had been confided to Captain New- 
man, of the artillery. It was an important point, 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 215 

as well for the purposes already named, as being a 
position whence any movement on the lakes could 
be discovered. On the 22d, it was re-enforced by 
several heavy pieces of cannon, and an additional 
supply of men. He was advised by the general 
of tne consequence attached to it, and that it was 
not to be inconsiderately yielded ; but that, in the 
event of his being compelled to abandon it, every 
thing being properly secured, he was to make good 
his retreat to Chef Menteur, where he would be 
covered by an additional force : " But," added he, 
" you are not to retreat until your judgment is well 
convinced that it is absolutely necessary to the very 
salvation of your command." 

On the 16th the militia were reviewed by Jack- 
son. He had perce'ved, on his arrival at New 
Orleans, such despondency manifested by the peo- 
ple, that to remove it had called forth all his exer- 
tions. His incessant endeavours to have defended 
every accessible point, and a confidence, constantly 
evinced, that his resources were commensurate with 
all the purposes of successful resistance, had com- 
pletely undermined those fears, at first so generally 
indulged. Lest, from the loss which had lately hap- 
pened on the lakes, a similar state of doubt might 
be again produced, was the principal cause of ap- 
pearing before them to-day on review ; to convince 
them, by his deportment, that the safety -of the city 
was not to be despaired of. He directed an ad- 
dress to be read to them. It was drawn in lan- 
guage breathing the warmth of his own feelings, 
and well calculated to inspire the same glow to 
others. He told them they were contending for all 
that could render life desirable — " for your property 
and lives ; — for those who are dearer than all, your 



216 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

wives and children ; — for liberty, without "which, 
c ountry, life and property are not worth possessing 
Even the embraces of wives and children are a 
reproach to the wretch who would deprive them, 
by his cowardice, of those inestimable blessings. 
You are to contend with an enemy, who seeks tc 
deprive you of the least of these — who avows a 
war of desolation, marked by cruelties, lusts, and 
horrors, unknown to civilized nations." 

That the hour of attack was not distant was con- 
firmed by a circumstance which reflects no consid- 
erable honour cu the officer in command of the 
fleet. The day subsequent to the contest on the 
lakes, Mr. Shields, purser in the navy, had been 
despatched with a flag to Cat Island, accompanied 
by Dr. Murrell, for the purpose of alleviating the 
situation of our wounded, and to effect a negotia- 
tion, by which they should be liberated on parole. 
We are not aware that such an application militat- 
ed against the usages of war : if not, the flag o-f 
truce should have been respected ; nor ought its 
bearer to have been detained as a prisoner. Ad- 
miral Cochrane's pretended fear that it was a wile, 
designed to ascertain his strength and situation, is 
far from presenting any sufficient excuse for so 
wanton an outrage on the rules of war. If this 
were apprehended, could not the messengers have 
been met at a distance from the fleet, and ordered 
back without a near approach? Had this 'been 
done, no information could have been gained, and 
the object designed to be secured by the detention 
would have been answered, without infringing that 
amicable intercourse between contending armies, 
which, when disregarded, opens a dot>r to brutal 






LIFE OF GENERAL, JACKSON 217 

tnd savage warfare. Finding they did not return, 
tiie cause of it was at once correctly divined. 

The British admiral resorted to various means to 
obtain from these gentlemen information of the 
strength and disposition of our army ; but so cau- 
tious a reserve was maintained, that nothing could be 
elicited. Shields was perceived to be quite deat; 
and, calculating on some advantage to be derived 
from this circumstance, he and the doctor were 
placed at night in the green room, where any conver- 
sation which occurred between them could readily be 
heard. Suspecting something of the kind, after hav- 
ing retired, and every tiling was seemingly still, they 
began to speak of their situation — the circumstance 
of their being detained, and of the prudent caution 
with which they had guarded themselves against 
communicating any information to the British admi- 
ral. " But,'' continued Shields, '.' how greatly these 
gentlemen will be disappointed in their expecta- 
tions ! for Jackson, with the twenty thousand troops 
he now has, and the re-enforcements from Kentucky, 
which must speedily reach him, will be able to de- 
stroy any force that can be landed from these ships." 
Every word was heard, and treasured ; and, not sup- 
posing there was any design, or that he presumed 
himself overheard, they were beguiled by it, and at 
once concluded our force to be as great as it was 
represented. 

Early on the 15th, the morning after the battle 
on the lake, expresses were sent up the coast, in 
quest of General Coffee, to proem e information of 
the Kentucky and Tennessee divisions, which, it 
was hoped, were not far distant. In his communi- 
cation to Coffee, the general cbser\es, "You must 
not sleep until you reach me, or arrive within strik- 
19 



218 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

ing distance. Your accustomed activity is looked 
for. Innumerable defiles present themselves, where 
your services and riflemen will be all-important. 
An opportunity is at hand, to reap for yourself and 
brigade the approbation of your country." 

In obedience to the order he had received at Mo- 
bile to occupy some central position, where his horses 
could be subsisted, Coffee had proceeded as far as 
Sandy Creek, a small distance above Baton Rouge, 
where he had halted. His brigade on its march had 
been greatly exposed, and many hardships encoun- 
tered. The cold season had set in ; and, for twenty 
days, it had rained incessantly. The waters were 
raised to uncommon heights, and every creek and 
bayou was to be bridged or swam. Added to this, 
their march was through an uncultivated country, 
but thinly settled, where little subsistence was to be 
had, and that procured with much difficulty. He 
had been at this place eight or ten days, when, late 
on the evening of the 17th, the express from head- 
quarters reached him. He lost no time in execut- 
ing the order ; and, directing one of his regiments, 
which, for the greater convenience of foraging, had 
encamped about six miles off, to unite with him, 
he proceeded on his march the instant it arrived. 
In consequence of innumerable exposures, there 
were, at this time, three hundred on the sick list. 
These being left, he commenced his advance with 
twelve hundred and fifty men. The weather con 
tinued extremely cold and rainy, which preventer 
their proceeding with the celerity the exigency o\ 
the moment required. Coffee, perceiving that th( 
movement of his whole force, in a bodv, would oc 
casion delays, ruinous to the object, ordered all, who. 
were able to proceed, to advance with him ; whik 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 219 

the rest of his brigade, under suitable officers, were 
left to follow as fast as the weak and exhausted 
condition of their horses would permit. His force, 
by this arrangement, was reduced to eight hundred 
men, with whom he moved with the utmost indus- 
try. Having marched seventy miles the last day, 
he encamped, on the night of the 19th, within fifteen 
miles of New Orleans, making in two days a dis- 
tance of one hundred and twenty miles Continu- 
ing his advance, early next morning he halted 
within four miles of the city, to examine the condi 
tion of his arms, and to learn, in the event the enemy 
had landed, the relative position of the two armies. 

On inspecting their arms, which consisted princi 
pally of rifles, two hundred were discovered to be 
so materially injured by the weather, as to be unfit 
for service. 

The advance of Colonel Hinds, from Woodville, 
with the Mississippi dragoons, was no less expedi- 
tious ; an active officer, he was, on this, as on all 
other occasions, at his post, ready to act as circum- 
stances should require. Having received his or- 
ders, he effected, in four days, a inarch of two hun- 
dred and thirty miles. 

On the 16th, Colonel Hynes, aid-de-camp to Gen- 
eral Carroll, reached head-quarters, with informa- 
tion from the general, that he would be present as 
early as possible; but that the state of the weather, 
and high and contrary winds, greatly retarded his 
progress. To remedy this, a stearn-boat was im- 
mediately put in requisition, and ordered to proceed 
up the river to aid him in reaching his destination, 
without loss of time. He was advised of the neces- 
sity of hastening rapidly forward ; that the lakes 
ta'ere in possession of the enemy and their arrival 



220 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

daily looked for ; " But," continued Jackson, " I am 
esoived, feeble as my force is, to assail him, on hie 
f rst landing, and perish sooner than lie shall reach 
the city." 

Independent of the large force which was de- 
scending with General Carroll, his approach was 
looked to with additional pleasure, from the circum- 
stance of his having with him a boat laden with 
arms, destined for the defence of the country, and 
which he had overtaken on his passage down the 
Mississippi. His falling in with them was fortu- 
nate ; for, had their arrival depended on those to 
whom they had been incautiously confided, they 
mifjht have come too late, and after all danger had 
subsided ; as was indeed the case with others for- 
warded from Pittsburg, which, through the unpar- 
donable conduct of those who had been intrusted 
with their transportation, did not reach New Or- 
leans until all difficulties had terminated. Great in- 
convenience was sustained, during the siege, for want 
of arms to place in the hands of the militia. Great 
as it was, it would have been increased, even to an 
alarming extent, but for the accidental circumstance 
of this boat having fallen into the hands of the Ten- 
nessee division, which impelled it on, and thereb) 
produced incalculable advantage. 

This division left Nashville on the 19th of No- 
vember. Their exertions entitle them and theij 
commander to every gratitude. Cut above all is our 
gratitude due to that benign Providence, who, hav- 
ing aided" in the establishment of our glorious inde- 
pendence, again manifested his goodness and powei 
in guarding the rights of a country rendered sacred 
by the blood of the virtuous, heretofore shed in its 
defence. It rarely, if ev^r, happens, that the Cum- 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 2*21 

berland river admits a passage for boats so eariy in 
the season; but torrents of rain descending swelled 
the stream, and wafted our troops safely to the Mis- 
sissippi, where all obstructions were at an end. 

While these preparations were progressing, to 
concentrate the forces within his reach, the gene- 
ral was turning his attention to ward off any blow 
that might be aimed before his expected reenforce- 
ments should arrive. Every point capable of being 
successfully assailed was receiving such additional 
security as could be given. Patrols and videttes 
were ranged through the country, that the earliest 
intelligence might be had of any intended move 
ment. The militia of the state were called out en 
masse ; and, through the interference of the legis 
lature, an embargo on vessels at the port of JNew 
Orleans was declared, to afford an opportunity of 
procuring additional recruits for the navy. Gener 
al Villery, because an inhabitant of the country, ana 
best understanding the several points on the lakes 
requiring defence, was ordered, with the Louisiana 
militia, to search out, and give protection to the dif- 
ferent passes, where a landing might be effected. 

To hinder the enemy from obtaining supplies 
on shore, a detachment was sent to Pearl Rivei 
to prevent any parties from landing until the 
stock could be driven from the neighbourhood 
The precaution, for some time used, of restricting 
the departure of any vessel with provisions, under 
the operation of the embargo imposed by the legis- 
lature, had greatly disappointed the expectations of 
the British, and even introduced distress into Pen- 
sacola, whence the Spaniards had been in the habit 
of procuring their supplies. The governor had so- 
licited the opening a communication, for the relief 
19* 



222 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

of the suffering inhabitants of his province. Jack- 
son was aware that this appeal to his humanity 
might be a stratagem, having for its object to aid 
the enemy. Although the governor, hitherto, had 
given no flattering evidence, either of his friend- 
ship or sincerity, still the statement offered by him 
might be correct ; and, if so, the neutrality of his 
country established a well-founded claim to the be- 
nevolence of the Americans. Balancing between 
a desire that these people should not be seriously 
injured, and a fear that the application was intended 
for a ve«ry different purpose, he determined to err 
on the side of mercy, and, as far as possible, relieve 
their wants. This he directed General Winches- 
ter, at Mobile, to effect, provided his stock of pro- 
visions would permit it. It was particularly enjoin- 
ed on him that the quantity of provisions sent should 
be small, and be conveyed by water : " For if," said 
he, " the Spaniards are really in distress, and the 
supply sent shall be taken by the British, it will ex- 
cite their just indignation towards them, and erase 
all friendship, while they will be afforded an addi- 
tional proof of ours : the supply, too, being incon- 
siderable, even if captured, will prove of no great 
benefit to our enemy." 

Jackson's arrangements were well conceived, and 
rapidly progressing ; but they were still insufficient; 
and his own forebodings assured him, that, to ob- 
tain security, something stronger required to be 
adopted. That there was an enemy in the midst of 
his camp, more to be feared than those who were men- 
acing from abroad, was, indeed, probable. A stran- 
ger himself, his conjectures might not have led to 
the conclusion ; but information received, before 
and SQOE after his arrival, through different char> 



LTFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 223 

ucls.and particularly from the governor of the state, 
bad awakened a beiief, that the country was filled 
with disaffected persons. Although he had been in 
possession of data, sufficiently strong to confirm him 
in the opinion, no urgent necessity had arisen, ren- 
dering a resort to rigid measures essential to the 
general safety. Abundant evidence of prevailing 
disaffection had been obtained, through Governor 
Claiborne. In a letter to General Jackson, aftei 
his return from Pensacola, he observed, " Enemies 
to the country may blame your prompt and ener- 
getic measures ; but in the person of every patriot 
you will find a supporter. I am well aware of the 
lax police of this city, and indeed of the whole state, 
with respect to strangers. I think, with you, that 
our country is filled 4 with traitors and spies.' On 
this subject, I have written pressingly to the city 
authorities and parish judges. Some regulations, 
I hope, will be adopted by the first, and greater 
vigilance be exercised, in future, by the latter." 

Never, perhaps, all the circumstances considered, 
did any general advance to the defence and pro 
tection of a people, situated in his own country 
where greater room was had to distrust the succes^ 
of the event, and believe all efforts hopeless. Whep 
General Jackson was informed by the governor^ 
that the legislature, instead of discharging with 
alacrity, diligence, and good fiith, the duties which 
had been confided to them by their constituents, 
had, under the garb of privilege, endeavoured to 
mar the execution of measures the most salutarv, 
he might well conclude the country in clanger, and 
suspect a want of fidelity in her citizens. Upon the 
yeomanry alone must every country depend for its 
liberty : they are its sinews and its strength. J^el 



224 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

them continue virtuous, and they will cheerTuily 
nay, fearlessly, maintain themselves against aggres- 
sion ; but if they become corrupted, or, through the 
intrigue or misconduct of their rulers, lose confi- 
dence in their government, their importance will 
be impaired. While the people of Rome felt them- 
selves freemen, and proud of the name of citizens, 
Rome was invincible ; and, to descend to times 
more modern, the strength of France was an over- 
match for combined Europe only while Frenchmen 
had confidence and regard for their government. 

Constitutional resources were attempted, and an 
effort made to draw out the militia : they resisted 
the requisition ; and that resistance, so far from be- 
ing discountenanced by the legislature then in ces- 
sion, was encouraged by their assuming to them- 
selves the right of declaring the demand to be illegal, 
unnecessary, and oppressive. Thus supported, the 
militia, as might have been expected, stood their 
ground, and resolutely resisted the call to defend 
their country. The example thus established had 
already induced the conviction that they were privi- 
leged persons, and had reserved to them, on all oc- 
casions, when called for, the right of determining 
if the call were regular, why and wherefore made, 
where they would prefer to act, and be governed 
accordingly. When, therefore, the first requisition 
made by Jackson was attempted to be filled, a 
number made a tender of their services as volun- 
teers ; but on this condition, that they were not to 
be marched from the state. The reply made show- 
ed they were to act with a general who knew noth- 
ing of temporizing policy, and who would go the 
entire length that safety and necessity required. 
They were assured his object was to defend the 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 225 

country, and that he should do it at every hazard ; 
that soldiers who entered the ranks with him, to 
fight the battles of their country, must forget the 
habits of social life, and be willing and prepared to 
go wherever duty and danger called ; such were 
the kind of troops he wanted, and none others would 
he have. 

Influenced by these and other considerations, 
which were daily disclosed ; sensible of the danger 
that surrounded him ; and from a conviction which 
he felt was founded not upon light considerations, 
that the country, without a most decisive course, 
could not be saved, he brought to the view of 
the legislature the necessity of suspending the writ 
of habeas corpus. To attempt himself so new and 
bold a course, he was satisfied, would draw to him 
the reproofs and censures of the orthodox politicians 
of the day, and involve him in various reproaches 
The legislature had already interrupted the com- 
merce by declaring and enforcing an embargo ; and 
the exercise of this subsequent authority, equally 
necessary with the first, could involve, he supposed, 
no higher exercise of power than the enactment of 
an embargo law. He was solicitous, therefore, to 
relieve himself of the responsibility, by prevailing 
on the legislature to do that which necessity and 
the security of the country seemed imperiously to 
require. They proceeded slowly to the investiga 
tion, and were deliberating, with great caution, upon 
their right, authority, and constitutional power to 
adopt such a measure, when the general, sensible 
that procrastination was dangerous, and might de- 
feat the objects intended to be answered, assumed 
all responsibility, and superseded their deliberations 



226 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

by declaring the city and environs of New Orleans 
under martial law. 

All persons entering the city were required, im- 
mediately, to report themselves to the adjutant-gen- 
eral ; and, on failing to do so, were to be arrested 
and detained for examination. None were to de- 
part from it, or be suffered to pass beyond the chain 
of sentinels, but by permission from the command- 
ing general, or one of the staff: nor was any vessel 
or craft to be permitted to sail on the river, or the 
lakes, but by the same authority, or a passport sign- 
ed by the commander of the naval forces. 

The lamps were to be extinguished at nine 
o'clock at night ; after which time, all persons 
found in the streets, or from their respective homes, 
without permission in writing, signed as above, were 
to be arrested as spies, and detained for exami- 
nation. 

At a crisis so important, and from a persuasion 
that the country, in its menaced situation, could not 
be preserved by the exercise of any ordinary 
powers, he believed it best to adopt a course that 
should be efficient, even if it partially enaangered 
the rights and privileges of the citizen. He pro- 
claimed martial law, believing necessity and policy 
required it ; " under a solemn conviction that the 
country, committed to his care, could by such a 
measure alone b-e saved from utter ruin ; and from 
a religious belief, that he was performing the most 
important duty. By it he intended to supersede 
such civil powers, as, m their operation, interfered 
with those he was obliged to exercise. He thought 
that, at such a moment, constitutional forms should 
be suspended, for the preservation of constitutional 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 227 

rights ; and that there could be no question, whether 
it were better to depart, for a moment, from the 
enjoyment of our dearest privileges, or to have them 
wrested from us for ever." 

This rigid course, however, was by no means 
well received. Whether it had for its object good 
or evil ; whether springing from necessity, or from 
a spirit of oppression in its author, with many, was 
not a material question : it was sufficient for them 
to consider it an infraction of the law, to excite 
their warmest opposition; whilst the long- approved 
doctrine of nectssitas rex afforded no substantial 
argument to induce a conviction of its propriety. 
Whether the civil should yield to military law, or 
which should have control, with those whose anx- 
ious wishes were for the safety of the state, was not 
a matter of deep or serious concern ; but to busy pol- 
iticians it opened a field for investigation : and many 
a fire-side patriot had arguments at command, to 
prove it an usurpation of power, an outrage upon 
government, and a violation of the constitution. 
During the invasion, and while affairs of major im- 
portance impended, no occasion was presented of 
testing its correctness ; but, soon as the enemy had 
retired, and before it was ascertained whether, at 
some more fortunate and less guarded point, they 
might not return, to renew those efforts which had 
so lately failed, Dominick A. Hall, judge of the 
United States* court for this district, determined to 
wage a war of authority, and to have it decided, if, in 
any event, the civil power could be deprived of su- 
premacy. Jackson presumed his time of too much 
importance, at so momentous a period, to be wasted 
in the discussion of civil matters. He gave to it, 
therefore, the only attention which he believed its 



928 LIFE 0F GENERAL JACKSON. 

officiousness merited, and, instead of obeying the 
command, ordered the judge to leaver the city. 
Peace being restored, and danger over, the judge 
renewed the contest ; and, causing the general to 
appear before him, on a process of contempt, for 
detaining and refusing to obey a writ of habeas 
corpus, which had been directed to him, amerced 
him in a fine of a thousand dollars. How far he 
was actuated by correct motives, in exclusion of 
those feelings which sometimes estrange the judg- 
ment, his own conscience can determine : and 
how far his proceedings were fair and liberal, will 
appear hereafter, when, in proper order, we exam- 
ine this prosecution. For the present, we are con- 
fident, that, if ever there was a case that could jus- 
tly or excuse a departure from the law, its features 
were not stronger than those which influenced Gen- 
eral Jackson, on the present occasion, in suspend- 
ing the rights of the citizens. If Judge Hall were 
impelled to the course he took, in defence of the 
violated dignity of the constitution, and to protect 
the rights of a government, whose judicial powers 
he represented, whether right or wrong, he de- 
serves not censure ; although it might be well re- 
plied, that a fairer opportunity of showing his devot- 
cdness to his country had just passed, when he might 
truly have aided in defence of her honour, nor left 
even room foi his motives to have been unfairly 
apprccintnd 

Learning the rumours that had been propagated, 
and fearing lest they might have an injurious ten- 
dency, Jackson immediately circulated an address 
to his troops, in which he sought to counteract the 
effect, and preserve their ardour and devotion to 
their country. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 229 

" Believe not," he observed, " that the threaten- 
ed invasion is with a view V, restore the country to 
Spain. It is founded in design, and a supposition 
that you would be willing to return to your ancient 
government. Listen not to such incredible tales : 
your government is at peace with Spain. It is your 
vital enemy, the common enemy of m siikind, the 
highway robber of the world, that has sent his hire- 
lings among you, to put you from your guard, that 
you may fall an easier prey. Then look to your 
liberty, your property, the chastity of your wives 
and daughters. Take a retrospect of the conduct 
of the British army at Hampton, and at other places, 
where it has entered our country — and every bosom, 
which glows witli patriotism and virtue, will be in- 
spired with indignation, and pant for the arrival of 
the hour when we shall meet and revenge those 
outrages against the laws of civilization and hu 
manity." 

With the exception of the Kentucky troops, all 
the forces expected had arrived. General Carroll 
had reached Coffee's encampment, four miles above 
the city, on the 21st, and had immediately reported 
to the commanding general. The officers were 
busily engaged in drilling, manoeuvring, and or- 
ganizing the troops, and in having every thing 
ready for action. No doubt was entertained, but 
the British would be able to effect a landino- at 
some point: the principal thing to be guarded 
against was not to prevent it ; fcr, since the loss of 
the gun-boats, any attempt of this kind could only 
be regarded as hopeless . but, by preserving a con- 
stant vigilance, they might be met at the very 
threshold. Small guard-boats were constantly ply- 
ing on the lakes, to give information of every move* 
20 



230 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

mont. Some of these had come in, late on the 
evening of the 22d, ax.d reported that all was quiet, 
and that no unfavourable appearance portended in 
that direction. With such vigilance, constantly 
exercised, it is astonishing that the enemy should 
have effected an invasion, and succeeded jr. disem- 
barking so large a force, without the shgbitst inti 
mation being had, until they were accidb-fiULy dis 
covered emerging from the swamp, abvift seven 
miles below the city. The general imprv-^icn is. 
that it was through information given by a small 
party of Spanish fishermen, that so secret a riser i- 
barkation was effected. Several of them hnd sei- 
tled at the mouth of this bayou, and supported them- 
selves by fish which they caught, and vended in the 
market at New Orleans. Obstructions had been 
ordered to be made on every inlet, and the Louis- 
iana militia were despatched for that purpose. This 
place had not received the attention its importance 
merited ; nor was it until the 22d, that General Vil- 
lery, charged with the execution of this order, had 
placed here a small detachment of men. Towards 
day, the enemy, silently proceeding up the bayou, 
landed, and succeeded in capturing the whole of 
this party but two, who, fleeing to the swamp, en- 
deavoured to reach the city ; but, owing to the 
thick undergrowth and briers, they did not arrive 
until after the enemy had reached the banks of the 
Mississippi, and been discovered. 

Bayou Bienvenu, through which the British ef- 
fected a landing, is an arm of considerable width, 
stretching towards the Mississippi from Lake 
Borgne, and abcit fifteen miles south-east of New 
Orleans. It had been reported to General Jackson 
on the 23d, that, on the day before, several strange 



LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. 231 

sail had been descried off Terre au Bceuf. To as- 
certain correctly the truth of the statement, Majors 
Tatum and Latour, topographical engineers, were 
sent, with orders to proceed in that direction, and 
learn if any thing were attempting there. It was 
towards noon of the 23d, when they started. Ap- 
proaching General Villery's plantation, and perceiv- 
ing at a distance soldiers and person fleeing away, 
they at or.ce supposed the enemy had arrived. 
What, however, was but surmise, was presently 
rendered certain ; and it was now no longer a doubt, 
but the British had landed, in considerable force, 
and had actually gained, unobserved, the house of 
General Villery, on the bank of the Mississippi, 
where they had surprised, and made prisoners, a 
company of militia, there posted. 

Major Tatum, hastening back, announced his 
discovery. Preparations to act were immediately 
made by General Jackson. Believing that to act 
speedily was of the highest importance, the signal 
guns were fired, and expresses sent forward, to 
concentrate his forces ; resolving that night to 
meet the invaders, and try his own and their firm- 
ness. 



232 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 



CHAPTER IX. 

General Jackson concentrates his forces, and marches to fight the 
enemy. — Alarms of the city. — Anecdote. — Mode of attack, and 
battle of the. 23ri of December. — British re-enforcements arrive 
duHng the action. — Arrival of General Carroll's division. — Our 
army retires from the field. — Effects of tliis battle. — Jackson es- 
tablishes a line of defence. — General Morgan %3 ordered on the 
right ban/c of the Mississipjn. — Destruction and loss of the Car- 
oline schooner. — Battle of the 28th December. — Conduct of the 
legislature of Louisiana. ; their deliberations suspended. — Scar- 
city of arms in the American camp. — Colonel Hinds. 

The hour to test the bravery of his troops ar- 
rived. The approach of the enemy, flushed with 
the hope of easy victory, was announced to Jackson 
a little after one o'clock in the afternoon. He well 
knew the greater part of his troops were inured to 
fatigue, while those opposed to him had just been 
landed from a long voyage, and were without ac- 
tivity, and unfitted for bodily exertion. Moreover, 
a part only might have arrived from the shipping, 
while the remainder would be certainly disembark- 
ed as early as possible. These circumstances 
seemed to augment, in his behalf, the chances of 
victory. He resolved, at all events, to march, and 
that niffht give them battle. Generals Coffee and 
Carroll were ordered to proceed immediately from 
their encampment, and join him. Although four 
miles above, they arrived in the city in less than 
two hours after the order had been issued. These 
forces, with the seventh and forty-fourth regiments, 
the Louisiana troops, and Colonel Hinds' dragoons, 
from Mississippi, constituted the strength of his 
army, which could be carried into action against i i 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 233 

enemy whose numbers, at this time, could only be 
conjectured. It was thought advisable that Gen- 
eral Carroll and his division should be disposed in 
the rear, for the reason that there was no correct 
information of the force landed through Villery's 
Canal, and because Jackson feared that this proba- 
bly might be merely a feint, intended to divert his 
attention, while a more numerous division, having 
already gained some point higher on the lake, might, 
by advancing in his absence, gain his rear, and suc- 
ceed in their designs. Uncertain of their move- 
ments, it was essential he should be prepared for 
the worst, and, by different dispositions of his 
troops, be ready to resist, in whatever quarter he 
might be assailed. Carroll, therefore, at the head 
of his division, and Governor Claiborne, with the 
state militia, were directed to take post on the 
Gentilly road, which leads from Chef Menteur to 
New Orleans, and to defend it to the last extremity. 

Alarm pervaded the city. The marching and 
countermarching of the troops, the proximity of the 
enemy, with the approaching contest, and uncer- 
tainty of the issue, had excited a general fear. 
Colonel Hayne, with two companies of riflemen, 
and the Mississippi dragoons, was sent forward to 
reconnoitre their camp, learn their position and 
numbers ; and, in the event they should be found 
advancing, to harass and oppose them at every 
step, until the main body should arrive. 

Every thing being ready, General Jackson com- 
menced his march to meet the veteran troops of 
England. An inconsiderable circumstance, at this 
moment, evinced what unlimited confidence was re 
posed in his bravery. As his troops were marching 
through the city, his ears were assailed with the 
20* 



234 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

screams and cries of innumerable females, who had 
collected on the way, and seemed to apprehend the 
worst of consequences. Feeling for their distress- 
es, and anxious to quiet them, he directed Mr. Liv- 
ingston, one of his aids-de-camp, to address them 
in the French language. " Say to them," said he, 
" not to be alarmed . the enemy shall never reach 
the city." It operated like an electric shock. To 
know that he himself was not apprehensive of a fatal 
result, inspired them with altered feelings ; sorrow 
was ended, and their grief converted into confidence. 
The general arrived in view of the enemy a lit- 
tle before dark. Having ascertained from Colonel 
Hayne their position, and that their strength was 
about two thousand men,* he immediately concert- 
ed the mode of attack, and hastened to execute it. 
Commodore Patterson, who commanded the naval 
forces on this station, with Captain Henly, on board 
the Caroline, had been directed to drop down, an- 
chor in front of their line, and open upon them from 
the guns of the schooner : this being the appointed 
signal, when given, the attack was to be waged 
simultaneously on all sides. The fires from their 
camp disclosed their position, and showed their en- 
campment, formed with the left resting on the riv- 
er, and extending at right angles into the open 
field. General Coffee, with his brigade, Colonei 
Hinds' dragoons, and Captain Beal's company of 
riflemen, were ordered to obiique to the left, and, 
by a circuitous route, avoid their pickets, and en- 
deavour to turn their right win": ; having succeed- 

* This opinion, as it aflei wards appeared, was incorrect. The 
number or the enemy, at the commencement of the action, was 
three thousand, and was shortly afterwards increased by addition- 
al forces : our strength did not exceed two thousand. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 235 

cd in this, to form his line, and press the enemy to- 
wards the river, where they would be exposed more 
completely to the fire of the Caroline. The rest of 
the troops, consisting of the regulars, Ploache's 
city volunteers, Daquin's coloured troops, the artil- 
lery under Lieutenant Spotts, supported by a compa- 
ny of marines commanded by Colonel M'Kee, ad- 
vanced on the road along the bank of the Missis- 
sippi, and were commanded by Jackson in person. 

General Coffee with caution had advanced be- 
yond their pickets, next the swamp, and nearly 
reached the point to which he was ordered, when a 
broadside from the Caroline announced the battle 
begun. Patterson had proceeded slowly, giving 
time, as he believed, for the execution of those ar- 
rangements contemplated on the shore. So san- 
guine had the British been in the belief that they 
would be kindly received, and little opposition at- 
tempted, that the Caroline floated by the sentinels, 
and anchored before their camp, without any kind 
of molestation. On passing the front picket, she 
Was hailed in a low tone of voice, but, not returning 
an answer, no further question was made. This, 
added to some other circumstances, confirmed the 
opinion that they believed her a vessel laden with 
provisions, which had been sent out from New Or- 
leans, and was intended for them. Having reach 
ed what, from their fires, appeared to be the centre 
of their encampment, her anchors were cast, and 
her character and business disclosed from her guns 
So unexpected an attack produced a momentar) 
confusion ; but, recovering, she was answered by ». 
discharge of musketry, and flight of congreve rock- 
ets, which passed without injury, while the grape 
and canister from her guns were pouring destruc 



236 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

tively on them. To take away the certainty of aim 
afforded by the light from their fires, these were 
immediately extinguished, and they retired two or 
three hundred yards into the open field, if not out 
of the reach of the cannon, at least to a distance 
where, by the darkness of the night, they would be 
protected. 

Coffee had dismounted his men, and turned his 
horses loose, at a large ditch, next the swamp, in the 
rear of Larond's plantation, and gained, as he be- 
lieved, the centre of the enemy's line, when the sig- 
nal from the Caroline reached him. He directly 
wheeled his columns in, and, extending his line par- 
allel with the river, moved towards their camp. 
He had advanced scarcely more than a hundred 
yards, when he received a heavy fire from a line 
formed in his front ; this, to him, was unexpected, 
as he supposed the enemy lying principally at a 
distance, and that the only opposition he should 
meet, until he approached towards the levee,* would 
be from their advanced pickets. The circumstance 
of his coming in contact with them so soon was 
owing to the severe attack of the schooner, which 
had compelled the enemy to abandon their camp, 
and form without the reach of her guns. The 
moon shone, but reflected her light too feebly to 
discover objects at a distance. The only means, 
therefore, of producing certain effect, with the kind 
of force engaged, which consisted chiefly of rifle- 



* Banks thrown up on the margin of the river to confine the 
stream to its bed ; and which are extended along the Mississippi 
on l>oth sides, from the termination of the highlands, near Baton 
Bongo. Frequently the river, in its vernal floods, rises above the 
elevation of the plains, and then the security of the country 
doprmls on the strength of those levees : they not unfrequeui 
ly break, when incalculable jijury is the cousequenee. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 237 

men, was not to venture at random, but to discharge 
their pieces only when there should be a certainty 
of felling the object. This order being given, the 
line pressed on, and, having gained a position near 
enough to distinguish, a general fire was given . it 
was well directed, and too destructive to be with- 
stood : the enemy gave way, and retreated, — ral- 
lied, — formed, — were charged, and again retreated. 
Our gallant yeomanry, led by their brave command • 
er, urged fearlessly on, and drove their invaders 
from every position they attempted to maintain. 

The enemy, driven back by the resolute firmness 
of the assailants, had now reached a grove of orange 
trees, with a ditch running past it, protected by a 
fence on the margin. Here they halted, and form- 
ed for battle. It was a position promising securi 
ty, and was occupied with confidence. Coffee's 
dauntless yeomanry, strengthened in their hopes of 
success, moved on, nor discovered the advantages 
against them, until a fire from the entire British 
line showed their position. A sudden check was 
given ; but it was only momentary ; for, gathering 
fresh ardour, they charged across the ditch, gave a 
deadly fiie, and forced them to retire. The retreat 
continued, until, gaining a similar position, the ene- 
my made another stand, and were again driven from 
it with considerable loss. 

Thus the battle raged on the left wing, until the 
British reached the bank of the river ; here a de- 
termined stand was made, and further encroach- 
ments resisted ; for half an hour the conflict waa 
extremely violent on both sides. The American 
troops could not be driven from their purpode, nor 
the British made to yield their ground : but at 
length, having suffered greatly, the latter were un- 



238 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

der the necessity of taking refuge behind the levee, 
which afforded a breast-work, and protected them 
from the fatal fire of our riflemen. Coffee, unac- 
quainted with their position, for the darkness had 
greatly increased, already contemplated again to 
charge them ; but one of his officers, who had dis- 
covered the advantage their situation gave them, 
assured him it was too hazardous ; that they could 
be driven no farther, and would, from the point they 
occupied, resist with the bayonet, and repel, with 
considerable loss, any attempt that might be made 
to dislodge them. The place of their retirement 
was covered in front by a strong bank, which had 
been extended into the field, to keep out the river, 
in consequence of the first being encroached upon, 
and undermined in several places : the former, how- 
ever, was still entire in many parts, which, inter- 
posing between them and the Mississippi, afforded se- 
curity from the broadsides of the schooner, which 
lay off at some distance. A further apprehension, 
lest, by moving still nearer to the river, he might 
greatly expose himself to the fire of the Caroline, 
which was yet spiritedly maintaining the conflict, 
induced Coffee to retire until he could hear from 
the commanding general, and receive his orders. 

During this time, the right wing, under Jackson, 
had been no less active. A detachment of artille- 
ry, under Lieutenant Spotts, supported by sixty ma- 
rines, constituting the advance, had „noved down 
the ~oad next the levee. On their left was the 
seventh regiment of infantry, led by Major Piere. 
The forty-fourth, commanded by Major Baker, was 
forrccd on the extreme left ; while Plauche's and 
Daquin's battalions of city guards were directed 
to be posted in the centre, between the seventh and 



, 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 239 

forty-fourth. The general had ordered Colonel 
Ross, who, during the night, acted in the capacity 
of brigadier-general, — for he was without a briga- 
dier, — on hearing the signal from the Caroline, to 
move off by heads of companies, and. on reaching 
the enemy's line, to deploy, and unite the left wing 
of his command with the right of General Coffee's. 
This order was omitted to be executed ; and the 
consequence was confusion in the ranks. 

Instead of n oving in column from the first posi- 
tion, the troops, with the exception of the seventh 
regiment, next the person of the general, which 
advanced agreeably to the instructions that had 
been given, were formed and marched in extended 
line. Having sufficient ground to form on at first, 
no inconvenience was at the moment sustained ; but, 
this advantage presently failing, the centre became 
compressed, and was forced in the rear. The river, 
from where they were formed, gradually inclined to 
the left, and diminished the space originally pos- 
sessed : farther in stood Larond's house, surround- 
ed by a grove of clustered orange trees ; this press- 
ing the left, and the river the right wing to the cen- 
tre, formed a curve, which presently threw the prin- 
cipal part of Plauche's and Daquin's battalions with- 
out the line. This inconvenience might have been 
remedied, but for the briskness of the advance, and 
for the darkness of the night. A heavy fire from 
behind a fence, immediately before them, had 
brought the enemy to view. Acting in obedience 
to their orders not to waste their ammunition at 
random, our troops had pressed forward against the 
opposition in their front, and thereby threw those 
battalions in the rear. 



240 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

A fog rising from the river, which, added to the 
smoke from the guns, was covering the plain grad- 
ually, diminished the little light shed by the moon, 
and greatly increased the darkness of the night . 
no clue was left to ascertain how the enemy were 
situated. There was no alternative but to move on 
in the direction of their fire, which subjected the 
assailants to material disadvantages. The British, 
driven from their first position, had retired back, 
and occupied another, behind a deep ditch, that ran 
out of the Mississippi towards the swamp, on the 
margin of which was a wood railed fence. Here, 
strengthened by increased numbers, they again op- 
posed the advance of our troops. Having waited 
until they had approached sufficiently near to be 
discovered, they discharged a fire upon the advanc- 
ing army. Instantly our battery w r as formed, and 
poured destructively upon them ; while the infan- 
try, pressing forward, aided in the conflict, which a* 
this point was for some time spiritedly maintained. 
At this moment, a brisk sally was made upon our 
advance, when the marines, unequal to the assault 
were already giving way. The adjutant-general, 
and Colonels Piatt and Chotard, with a part of the 
seventh, hastening to their support, drove the ene- 
my, and saved the artillery from capture. General 
Jackson, perceiving the decided advantages which 
were derived from the position they occupied, or- 
dered their line to be charged. It was obeyed and 
executed with promptness. Pressing on, our troops 
gained the ditch, and, pouring across it a we'l-aim- 
ed fire, compelled them to retreat, and abandon 
their entrenchment. The plain, on which they 
were contending, was cut to pieces, by races from 
the river, to convey the water to the swamp. The 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 241 

enemy were, therefore, very soon enabled to occu- 
py another position, equally favourable with the one 
whence they had been just driven, where they form 
ed for battle, and, for some time, gallantly main- 
tained themselves ; but which, after stubborn resist- 
ance, they were forced to" yield. 

The enenvy, discovering the obstinate advance 
made by the right wing of the American army, and pre- 
suming perhaps that its principal strength was post- 
ed on the road, formed the intention of attacking 
violently the left. Obliquing for this purpose, an 
attempt was made to turn it. At this moment, Da- 
quin's and the battalion of city guards, being march- 
ed up, and formed on the left of the forty-fourth 
regiment, repulsed them. 

The particular moment of the contest prevented 
many of those benefits, which might have been de- 
rived from the artillery. The darkness of the night 
was such, that the blaze of the enemy's musketry 
was the only light afforded, by which to determine 
their position, or be capable of taking our own to 
advantage ; yet, notwithstanding, it greatly annoy- 
ed them, whenever it could be brought to bear. 
Directed by Lieutenant Spotts, a vigilant and skil- 
ful officer, with men to aid him who looked to noth- 
ing but a zealous discharge of their duty, the most 
important services were rendered. 

The enemy had been thrice beaten, and for near- 
ly a mile compelled to yield their ground. They 
had now retired, and, if found, were to be sought 
for amidst the darkness of the night. The gene- 
ral determined to halt, and ascertain Coffee's posi- 
tion and success, previously to waging the battle 
further ; for as yet no communication had passed 
between them. The Carolina had almost ceased 
21 



242 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

her operations ; it being only occasionally, that tlio 
noise of her guns disclosed the little opportunity 
she possessed of acting efficiently. 

The express despatched to General Jackson from 
the left wing having reached him, he determined 
to prosecute the successes he had gained no fur- 
ther. The darkness of the night, the confusion 
into which his own division had been thrown, and a 
similar disaster produced on the part of Coffee, — all 
pointed to the necessity of retiring from the field. 
The bravery displayed by his troops had induced 
a belief, that, by pressing forward, he might capture 
the whole British army : at any rate, he considered 
it but a game of hazard, which, if unsuccessful, could 
not occasion his own defeat. If incompetent to its 
execution, and superior numbers, or superior disci- 
pline, should compel him to recede from the effort, 
he well knew the enemy would not have temerity 
enough to attempt pursuit. The extreme darkless, 
their entiie ignorance of the situation of the coun- 
try, and an apprehension lest their forces miglrt 
be greatly outnumbered, afforded sufficient reasons 
on which to ground a belief, that, although beaten 
from his purpose, he would yet have it in his power 
to retire in safety ; but, on the arrival of the ex- 
press from General Coffee, learning the strong po- 
sition to which the enemy had retired, and that a 
part of the left wing had been detached, and were 
in all probability captured, he determined to retire 
from the contest, nor attempt a further urosecution 
of his successes. General Coffee was accordingly 
directed to withdraw, and take a position atLarond's 
plantation, where the line had been first formed: 
and thither the troops 0:1 the right were also order- 
ed to be marched. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 243 

The last charge made by the left wing had sep 
arated from the main body Colonels Dyer and Gib- 
eon, with two hundred men, and Captain Beal's com- 
pany of riflemen. What might be their fate ; 
whether they were captured, or had effected their 
retreat, was, at this time, altogether uncertain; be 
that as it might, Coffee's command was considera- 
bly weakened. 

Colonel Dyer, who commanded the extreme left, 
on clearing the grove, after the enemy had retired, 
was marching in a direction where he expected to 
find General Coffee : he very soon discovered a 
force in front, and, halting his men, hastened towards 
it : arriving within a short distance, he w T as hailed, 
ordered to stop, and report to whom he belonged : 
Dyer, and Gibson, his lieutenant-colonel, who ac- 
companied him, advanced, and stated they were of 
Coffee's brigade : by this time they had arrived 
within a short distance of the hue, and, perceiving 
that the= name of the brigade they had stated was 
not understood, their apprehensions were awaken- 
ed, lest it might be a detachment of the enemy ; in 
this opinion they were immediately confirmed, and. 
wheeling to return, were fired on and pursued. 
Gibson had scarcely started when he fell : before 
he could recover, a soldier, quicker than the rest, 
had reached him, and pinned him to the ground 
with his bayonet ; fortunately the stab had but 
slightly wounded him, and he was only held by his 
clothes ; thus pinioned, and perceiving others to be 
briskly advancing, but a moment was left for delib- 
eration ; — making a violent exertion, and springing 
to his feet, he threw his assailant to the ground, and 
made good his retreat. Colonel Dyer had retreat- 
ed about fifty yards, when his horse dropped dead ; 



244 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

entangled in the fall, and slightly wounded m the 
thigh, there was little prospect of relief, for the en- 
emy were briskly advancing;; his men being near 
at hand, he ordered them to advance and fire, which 
checked their approach, and enabled him to escape. 
Being now at the head of his command, perceiv- 
ing an enemy in a direction he had not expected, 
and uncertain how or where he might find General 
Coffee, he determined to seek him to the right, and, 
moving on with his little band, forced his way through 
the enemy's lines, with the loss of sixty-three oi 
his men, who were killed and taken. Captain Beal 
with equal bravery, charged through the enemy, car 
rying off some prisoners, and losing several of his 
own company. 

This re-enforcement of the British had arrived 
from Bayou Bienvenu, after night. The boats that 
landed the first detachment, proceeded back to the 
shipping, and, having returned, were on their way 
up the bayou, when they heard the guns of the 
Caroline ; moving hastily on to the assistance of 
those who had debarked before, they reached the 
shore, and, knowing nothing of the situation of the 
two armies, during the engagement advanced in the 
rear of General Coffee's brigade. Coming in con- 
tact with Colonel Dyer and Captain Beal, they filed 
off to the left, and reached the British lines. 

This detached part of Coffee's brigade, unable to 
unite with, or find him, retired to the place where 
they had first formed, and joined Colonel Hinds' 
dragoons, which had remained on the ground where 
the troops had first dismounted, that they might cov- 
er their retreat, in the event it became necessary. 

Jackson had gone into this battle confident of 
success ; and his arrangements were such as would 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 245 

have ensured it, even to a much greater extent, but 
for the intervention of circumstances that were not, 
ind could not be foreseen. The Caroline had giv- 
en her signals, and commenced the battle, a little 
too early, before Coffee had reached his position, 
and before every thing was fully in readiness to at- 
tain the objects designed : but it was chiefly owing 
to the confusion introduced at first into the ranks, 
which checked the rapidity of his advance, gave 
the enemy time for preparation, and prevented his 
division from uniting with the ritrht wing of Gener- 
al Coffee's brigade. 

Colonel Hinds, with one hundred and eighty dra- 
goons, was not brought into action during the night, 
interspersed as the plain was with innumerable 
ditches, diverging in different directions, it was im- 
possible that cavalry could act to any kind of ad- 
vantage : they were now formed in advance, to 
watch, until morning, the movements of the enemy. 

From the experiment just made, Jackson believ- 
ed it would be in his power, on renewing the attack, 
r o capture the British army : he concluded, there- 
fore, to order down to his assistance General Car- 
roll with his division, and to assail them a"*ain at 
the dawn of day. Directing Governor Claiborne 
to remain at his post, with the Louisiana militia, for 
the defence of an important pass to the city, the 
Gentilly road, he despatched an express to Carroll, 
stating to him, that, in the event there had been no 
appearance of a force during the night, in the di- 
rection of Chef Menteur, to join him with the troops 
under his command: this order was executed by 
one o'clock in the morning. Previously, however } 
to his arrival, a different determination was made. 
From prisoners who had been brought in, and through 



216 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

deserters, it was ascertained that the strength cf 
the enemy, during the battle, was four thousand, 
and, with the re-enforcements which had reached 
them, after its commencement, and during- the ac- 
tion, their force could r<)t be less than six: — at any 
rate, it would greatly e,. v eed his own, even after 
the Tennessee division should be added. Although 
very decided advantages had been obtained, yet 
they had been procured under circumstances that 
might be wholly lost in a contest waged, in open 
day, between forces so disproportionate, and by un- 
disciplined troops, against veteran soldiers. Jack 
son well knew it was incumbent upon him to act a 
par!; entirely defensive : should the attempt to de- 
stroy the city succeed, numerous difficulties would 
present themselves, which might be avoided, so long 
as he could hold the enemy in check. Prompted 
by these considerations, and believing it attainable 
in no way so effectually as in occupying some point, 
and, by the strength he might give it, compensate 
for the inferiority of his numbers, and their want 
of discipline, he determined to forbear all further 
offensive efforts until he could more certainly dis- 
cover the views of the enemy, and until the Ken- 
tucky troops should reach him. Pursuing this idea, 
at four o'clock in the morning, having ordered Co- 
lonel Hinds to occupy the ground he was then aban- 
doning, and to observe the enemy closely, he fell 
back, and formed his line behind a deep ditch that 
stretched to the swamp at right angles from the 
river. There were two circumstances recommend- 
ing the importance of this place : the swamp, which, 
from the high lands, at Eaton Rouge, skirts the riv- 
er at irregular distances, and in many places is al- 
most impervious, had here approached within four 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 247 

hundred yards of the Mississippi, and hence, from 
the narrowness of the pass, was more easily to be 
defended ; added to which, there was a deep canal, 
whence the dirt, being thrown on the upper side, al- 
ready formed a tolerable work of defence. Behind 
this his troops were formed, and proper measures 
adopted for increasing its strength, with a deter- 
mination never to abandon it. 

Promptitude in decision, and activity in execu- 
tion, constituted the leading traits of Jackson's char- 
acter. No sooner had he resolved on the course 
which he thought necessary to be pursued, than with 
every possible despatch he hastened to its comple- 
tion. Before him was an army proud of its name, 
and distinguished for its deeds of valour ; oppos- 
ed to which was his own unbending spirit, and an 
inferior, undisciplined and unarmed force. He con- 
ceived, therefore, that his was a defensive policy ; 
that, by prudence, he should be able to preserve 
what offensive operation might have a tendency to 
endanger. Hence, with activity and industry, bas- 
ed on a hope of ultimate success, he commenced his 
plan of defence, determining to fortify himself effect- 
ually, as the peril and pressure of the moment would 
permit. When to expect attack he could not tell; 
readiness to meet it was for him to determine on ; all 
else was for the enemy. Promptly, therefore, he pro- 
ceeded with his system of defence ; and with such 
anxiety, that, until the night of the 27th, when his line 
was completed, he never slept, or for a moment 
closed his eyes. Resting his hope of safety here, 
he u r as every where, through the night, present, en- 
couraging his troops, and hastening a completion of 
the work. The excitement produced by the mighty 
object before him was such as overcame the demand 



248 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

of nature, and for five days and four nights he was 
without sleep, and constantly employed. His line 
of defence beii-g completed on the night of the 
27th, he, for the first time since the arrival of the 
enemy, retired to rest and repose. 

The soldier who lias stood the shock of battle, 
and knows what slight circumstances oftentimes 
produce decided advantages, will be able to appre- 
ciate the events of this night. Although the dread- 
ful carnage of the 8th of January, hereafter to be 
told, was in fact the finishing blow, that struck down 
the towering hopes of those invaders, yet in the 
battle of the 23d is there to be found abundant 
cause why success resulted to our arms. The Brit- 
ish had reached the Mississippi without the fire of 
a gun, and encamped upon its banks as compose. 1- 
ly as if they had been seated on their own soil. 
These were circumstances which awakened a be 
lief that they expected little opposition, were cer- 
tain of success, and that the troops with whom 
they were to contend would scarcely venture to re- 
sist them : resting thus confidently in the expecta- 
tion of success, they would the next day have mov- 
ed forward, and succeeded in the accomplishment 
of their designs. Jackson, convinced that an ear- 
ly impression was essential to ultimate success, had 
resolved to assail them at the moment of their land- 
ing, and " attack them in their first position :" we 
have, therefore, seen him, with a force inferior, by 
one half, to that of the enemy, at an unexpected 
moment, break into their camp, and, with his undis- 
ciplined yeomanry, drive before him the pride of 
England, and the conquerors of Europe. It was 
on event that could not fail to destroy all previous 
theories, and establish a conclusion, which our en- 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. SM9 

einy liad not before formed, that they were con- 
tending against valour inferior to none they had 
seen ; — before which their own bravery had not 
stood, nor their skill availed them : it had the ef- 
fect of satisfying them, that the quantity and kind 
of troops it was in our power to wield, must be dif- 
ferent from any thing that had been represented to 
them ; for, much as they had heard of the courage 
of the man with whom they were contending, they 
could not suppose, that a general, having a country 
to defend, and a reputation to preserve, would ven- 
ture to attack, on their own chosen ground, a great 
ly superior army, and one, which, by the numerous 
victories it had achieved, had already acquired a 
fame in arms ; they were convinced that his force 
must greatly surpass what they had expected, and 
be composed of materials different from what they 
had imagined. 

The American troops, which were actually en- 
gaged, did not amount to two thousand men : they 
consisted of part of 

Coffee's brigade and Captain Beal's company, 64S 
The 7th and 44th regiments, - - 763 

Company of marines and artillery, - - 82 

Plauche's and Daquin's battalions, - 488 

And the Mississippi dragoons under Colonel ) 
Hinds, not in the action, - - | 

1>167* 
which, for more than an hour, maintained a severe 
conflict with a force of four or five thousand, and 
retired in safety from the ground, with the loss of 



* This statement may be relied on ; it was furnished to the au- 
thor by Colonel Robert Butler, adjutant -general of the scuthera 
division, who assured him it was correct. 



250 LIFE OF GENERAL JAjUKSON 

but twenty -four killed, one hundred and fifteen 
wounded, and seventy-four made prisoners ; while 
the killed, wounded, and prisoners, of the enemy, 
were not less than four hundred. 

Our officers and soldiers executed every order 
with promptitude, and nobly sustained their coun- 
try's character. Lieutenant-Colonel Lauderdale, 
of Coffee's brigade, an officer of great promise, and 
on whom every reliance was placed, fell at his post, 
and at his duty : he had entered the service, and 
descended the river with the volunteers under Gen- 
eral Jackson, in the winter of 1812, passed through 
all the hardships of the Creek war, and had ever 
manifested a readiness to act when nis country 
needed his services. Young, brave, and skilful, he 
had already afforded evidences of a capacity, which 
might, in future, have become useful ; his exemplary 
conduct, both in civil and military life, had acquired 
for him a respect, that rendered his fall a subject 
of general regret. Lieutenant M'Lelland, a valua- 
ble young officer of the 7th, was also among the 
number of the slain. 

Coffee's brigade, during the action, bravely sup- 
ported the character they had established. The 
unequal contest in which they were engaged rever 
occurred, nor, for a moment, checked the rap)dity 
of their advance. Had the British known \hey 
were riflemen, without bayonets, a firm stand would 
nave arrested their progress, and destruction or 
capture would have been the inevitable conse- 
quence ; but this being unknown, every charge 
tl.oy made was crowned with success, Officers, 
from the highest to inferior grades, discharged 
\vh:it had been expected of them. Ensign Leach, 
Of the 7th regiment, being wounded through the 



LiFk. OF GENERAL JACKSON. 251 

ho3y, still remained at his post, and in the per- 
formance of his duty. Colonel Reuben Kemper, 
amidst the confusion introduced on the left wing, 
found himself at the bead of a handful of men, de- 
tacked from the main body, and in the midst of a 
party of the enemy : to attempt resistance was idle : 
he sought safety through stratagem. Callkig to a 
group of soldiers who were near, in a positive tone, 
he demanded of them where their regiment was : 
lost themselves, they were unable to answer ; but, 
supposing him one of their own officers, they assent- 
ed to his orders, and followed him to his own line, 
where they were made prisoners. 

The 7th regiment, commanded by Major Piere, 
and the 44th, under Major Baker, aided by Major 
Butler, gallantly maintained the conflict, forced the 
enemy from every secure position he attemp-ted to 
occupy, and drove him a mile from the first point of 
attack. Confiding in themselves, and their gene- 
ral, who was constantly with them, exposed to d*an- 
ger, and in the midst of the fight, inspiring by his 
ardour, and encouraging by his example, they ad- 
vanced to the conflict, nor evinced a disposition to 
leave it until the prudence of their commander di- 
rected them to retire. 

From the violence of the assault, the fears of the 
British had been greatly excited : to keep their ap- 
tfdhensions alive was considered important, with a 
Vx&w to destroy the overweening confidence with 
which they had arrived on our shores, and to com- 
pel them to act, for a time, upon the defensive. To 
effect this, General Coffee, with his brigade, was 
ordered down, on the morning of the 24th, to unite 
with Colonel Hinds, and snake a show in the rear 
vf Lacosie's plantation The enemy, not yet re- 



252 LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON,. 

covered of the panic of the preceding- evening, be 
Jieved it was in contemplation to urge another at- 
tack, and immediately formed themselves to repel 
it ; but Coffee, having 1 succeeded in recovering- some 
of his horses, which were wandering along the mar- 
gin of the swamp, and in regaining part of the cloth 
ing which his troops had lost the night before, re- 
turned to the line, leaving them to conjecture the 
objects of his movement. 

The scanty supply of clothes and blankets that 
remained to the soldiers, from their long and expos- 
ed marches, had been left where they dismounted 
to meet the enemy. Their numbers were too lim- 
ited, and the strength of their opponents too well 
ascertained, for any part of their force to remain 
and take care of what was left behind : it was so 
essential to hasten on, reach their destination, and 
be ready to act when the signal from the Caroline 
should announce their co-operation necessary, that 
no time was afforded them to secure their horses ; 
— they were turned loose, and their recovery trust- 
ed to chance. Although many were regained, 
many were lost ; w hile most of the men remained 
with a single suit, to encounter, in the open field, 
and in swamps covered with water, the hardships 
of camp, and the severity of winter. It is a circum- 
stance which entitles them to much credit, that, 
under privations so oppressive, complaints were 
never heard. This state of things was not of long 
continuance. The story of their sufferings was no 
sooner known, than the legislature appropriated a 
Bum of money for their relief, which was greatly 
increased by subscriptions in the city and neigh- 
bourhood. Materials being purchased, the ladies, 
with that warmth of heart characteristic of their 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 25J 

sex, at once exerted themselves in removing theh 
distresses : all their industry was called into action, 
and, in a little time, the suffering soldier «vas re- 
lieved. Such generous conduct, in extending as- 
sistance at a moment when it was so much needed, 
while it conferred on those females the highest hon- 
our, could not fail to nerve the arm of the brave 
with new zeal for the defence of their benefactress- 
es. This distinguished mark of their benevolence 
is still remembered ; and often as these valiant men 
are heard to recount the dangers they have passed, 
they breathe a sentiment of gratitude to those who 
conferred upon them such distinguished marks of 
their kindness. 

To keep up a show of resistance, detachments 
of light troops were occasionally kept in front of 
the line, harassing the enemy's advanced posts 
whenever an opportunity was offered. Every moment 
that could be gained, and every delay that could be 
extended to the enemy's attempts to reach the city, 
was of the utmost importance. The works were 
rapidly progressing, and hourly increasing in 
strength. The militia of the state were every day 
arriving, and every day the prospect of successful 
opposition was brightening. 

The enemy still remained at his first encamp- 
ment. To be in readiness to repel an assault when 
attempted, the most active exertions were made on 
the 24th and 25th. The canal, covering the front 
of our line, was deepened and widened, and a 
strong mud wall formed of the earth thrown out. 
To prevent any approach until his system of defence 
should be in greater forwardness, Jackson ordered 
the levee to be cut, about a hundred yards below 

the point he had occupied. The river being very 
90 



254 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

high, a broad stream of water passed rapidly through 
the plain, of the depth of thirty or forty inches 
which prevented any approach of troops on foot. 
Embrasures were formed, and two pieces of artil- 
lery, under the command of Lieutenant Spotts, early 
on the morning of the 24th, were placed in a posi- 
tion to rake the road leading up the levee. 

He was under constant apprehensions, lest, in 
spite of his exertions below, the city might, through 
some other route, be reached ; and those fears were 
increased to-day, by a report that a strong force had 
arrived, and debarked at the head of Lake Borgne. 
This, however, proved to be unfounded : the enemy 
had not appeared in that direction, nor had the offi- 
cer, to whom was intrusted the command of this 
fort, so much relied on, forgotten his duty, or for- 
saken his post. Acting upon the statement that 
Major Lacoste had retired from the fort, and fallen 
back on Bayou St. John, and incensed that orders, 
which, from their importance, should have been 
faithfully executed, had been thus lightly regarded, 
he hastened to inform him what he had understood, 
and to forbid his leaving his position. " The bat- 
tery I have placed under your command must be 
defended at all hazards. In you, and the valour of 
your troops, I repose every confidence ; — let me not 
be deceived. With us every thing goes on well: 
the enemy has not yet advanced. Our troops have 
covered themselves with glory : it is a noble ex- 
ample, and worthy to be followed by all. Maintain 
your post, nor ever think of retreating." To give 
additional strength to a place deemed so important, 
to inspire confidence, and ensure safety, Colonel 
Dyer and two hundred men were ordered to assist 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 255 

in its defence, and act as videttes, in advance of the 
occupied points. 

General Morgan, who, at the English Turn, com- 
manded the fort on the east bank of the river, was 
instructed to proceed as near the enemy's camp as 
prudence would permit, and, by destroying the levee, 
to let in the waters of the Mississippi between them 
The execution of this order, and a similar one, pre- 
viously made, below the line of defence, had entire- 
ly insulated the enemy, and prevented his march 
against either place. On the 26th, however, the 
commanding general, fearing for the situation of 
Morgan, who, from the British occupying the inter- 
mediate ground, was entirely detached from his 
camp, directed him to abandon his encampment, 
carry off such of the cannon as might be wanted, 
and throw the remainder into the river, where they 
could be again recovered when the waters reced- 
ed ; to retire to the other side of the river, and as- 
sume a position on the right bank, nearly opposite 
to his line, and have it fortified. This movement 
was imposed by the relative disposition of the two 
armies. Necessity, not choice, made it essential 
that St. Leon should be abandoned. 

From every intelligence, obtained through do 
serters and prisoners, it. was evident that the British 
fleet would make an effort to ascend the river, and 
co-operate with the troops already landed. Lest 
this, or a diversion in a different quarter, might be 
attempted, exertions were made to interpose such 
defences on the Mississippi as might assure protec- 
tion. The forts on the river, well supported with 
brave men, and heavy pieces of artillery, might, 
perhaps, have the effect to deter their shipping from 
venturing in that direction, and dispose them to seek 



25G LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

some safer route, if any could be discovered. Pass 
Barrataria was best calculated for this purpose. 
The difficulty of ascending the Mississippi, from the 
rapidity of the current, its winding course, and the 
ample protection given at Forts St. Philip and Bour- 
bon, were circumstances to which, it was not to be 
inferred, the British were strangers. It was a 
more rational conjecture that they would seek a 
passage through Barrataria, proceed up on the 
right bank of the river, and gain a position whence, 
co-operating with the forces on the east side, they 
might drive our troops from the line they had form- 
ed. Major Reynolds was acccordingly ordered 
thither, with instructions to place the bayous, emp- 
tying through this pass, in the best possible state 
of defence — to occupy the island — to mount suffi- 
cient ordnance, and draw a chain, within cannon- 
shot, across, and protect it from approach. Larite 
who had been heretofore promised pardon for the 
outrages he had committed against the laws of 
the United States, was also despatched with Rey- 
nolds. He was selected, because his knowledge of 
the topography and precise situation of this section 
of the state was remarkably correct : it was the 
point where he had constantly rendezvoused, dur- 
ing the time of cruising against the merchant ves- 
scls of Spain, under a commission obtained at Car- 
tluigena, and where he had become perfectly ac- 
quainted with every inlet and entrance to the gulf 
through which a passage could be effected. 

With these arrangements — treason apart — all 
anxiously alive to the interest of the country, and 
disposed to protect it, there was little room to ap- 
prehend disaster. To use the general's own expres- 
sion, on another occasion, " the surest defence, and 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 2#f 

one which seldom failed of success, was a rampart 
of high-minded and brave men." There were some 
of this description with him, on whom he could 
safely rely, in moments of extreme peril. 

As yet the enemy were uninformed of the posi- 
tion of Jackson. They had been constantly engag- 
ed, since their landing, in procuring from their ship- 
ping every thing necessary to ulterior operations 
A complete command on the lakes, and possession 
of a point on the margin, presented an uninterrupt 
ed ingress and egress, and afforded the opportunity 
of conveying whatever was wanted, in perfect safe- 
ty, to their camp. The height of the Mississippi, 
and the discharge of water through the openings 
made in the levee, had given an increased depth to 
the canal, from which they had first debarked, en- 
abled them to advance their boats much farther, in 
the direction of their encampment, and to bring up 
their artillery, bombs, and munitions. Thus engag- 
ed, during the first three days after their arrival, 
early on the morning of the 27th, a battery was 
discovered on the bank of the river, erected during 
the preceding night, and on which were mounted 
several, pieces of heavy ordnance ; from this position 
a fire was opened on the Caroline schooner, lying 
under the opposite shore. 

After the battle of the 23d, in which this vessel 
had so effectually aided, she had passed to the op- 
posite side of the river, where she had since lain. 
Her services- were too highly appreciated not to be 
again desired, in the event the enemy should en- 
deavour to advance. Her present situation was 
considered unsafe, but it had been essayed in vain 
to advance her higher up the stream. No favoura- 
ole breeze had yet arisen to aid her in stemming 
22* 



258 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

the current; and towing, and other remedies, had 
been resorted to without success. Her safety might 
have been ensured by floating her down the river, 
and placing- her under cover of the guns of the fort, 
though it was preferred, as a matter of policy, to 
risk her where she was, hourly calculating that a 
favourable wind might relieve her, rather than, by 
dropping her with the current, lose those benefits 
which, against an advance of the enemy, it might 
be in her power to extend. Commodore Patterson 
had left her on the 26th, by the orders of the general, 
when Captain Ilenly made a further, but ineffectual 
effort to force her up the current, near the line, for 
the double purpose of its defence and for her own 
safety. 

These attempts to remove her being discovered 
at daylight, on the morning of the 27th, a battery, 
mounting five guns, opened upon her, discharging 
bombs and red-hot shot: it was spiritedly answered, 
but without affecting the battery ; there being but 
a long twelve pounder that could reach. The sec- 
ond fire had lodged a hot shot in the hold, directly 
under her cables, whence it could not be removed, 
and where it immediately communicated fire to the 
schooner. The shot from the batterv were con- 
stantly taking effect, firing her in different places,; 
while the blaze, already kindled under her cables, 
Was rapidly extending. A well-grounded appre- 
hension of her commander, that she could be r.c 
lunger defended, induced a fear lest the magazine 
should be reached, and every thing destroyed. One 
of his crew being killed, and six wounded, and not 
a glimmering of hope entertained that she could be 
preserved, orders were given to abandon her. The 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 259 

crew in safety reached the shore, and in a short 
time she blew up. 

Although unexpectedly deprived of so material 
a dependence, an opportunity was soon presented of 
using her brave crew to advantage. Gathering- 
confidence from what had been just effected, the 
enemy left tlmir encampment, and moved in the di- 
rection of our line. Their numbers had been in- 
creased, and Major-General Sir Edward Packenham 
now commanded in person. Early on the 28th, his 
columns commenced their advance to storm out 
works. At the distance of half a mile, their heavy 
artillery opened, and quantities of bombs, balls, and 
congreve rockets, were discharged. It was a 
scene of terror, which they had probably calculat 
ed would excite a panic in the minds of the raw 
troops of our army, and compel them to surrender 
at discretion. Their congreve rockets, though a 
kind of instrument of destruction to winch our 
troops, unskilled in the science of warfare, had been 
hitherto strangers, excited no other feeling than 
that which novelty inspires. At the moment, there- 
fore, that the British, in different columns, were 
moving up, in all the pomp of battle, preceded by 
these insignia of terror, more than danger, and were 
expecting to behold their " Yankee foes" flee be- 
fore them, our batteries halted their advance. 

In addition to the two pieces of cannon, mounted 
on our works on the 24th, three others, of heavy 
caliber, obtained from the navy department, had 
been formed along the line ; these, opening on the 
enemy, checked their progress, and disclosed to 
them the hazard of the project they were on. Lieu- 
tenants Crawley and Norris volunteered, and, 
with the crew of the Caroline, maintained, at the 



260 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

guns they commanded, that firmness and decision 
for which they had been so highly distinguished. 
They had been selected by the general, because of 
their superior knowledge in gunnery, and, on this 
occasion, gave a further evidence of their skill, and 
of a disposition to act in any situation where they 
could be serviceable. The line, which, from the 
labours bestowed on it, was daily strengthening, 
was not yet in a situation effectually to resist ; this 
deficiency, however, was well remedied by the 
brave men who were formed in its rear. 

From the river the greatest injury was effected 
Lieutenant Thompson, who commanded the Louis- 
iana sloop, opposite the line of defence, no sooner 
discovered the columns approaching, than, warping 
her around, he brought her starboard guns to bear, 
and forced them to retreat: but, from their heavy 
artillery, the enemy maintained the conflict with 
great spirit, constantly discharging their bombs and 
rockets for seven hours, when, unable to make a 
breach, or silence the fire from the sloop, they 
abandoned a contest where few advantages seemed 
to be presented. The crew of this vessel was com- 
posed of new recruits, and of discordant materials, 
— of soldiers, citizens, and seamen ; yet, by the ac- 
tivity of their commander, were they so well per- 
fected in duty, that they already managed their 
gi:ns with the greatest certainty of effect; and, by 
three o'clock in the evening, with the aid of the 
land batteries, had completely driven back the en- 
emy. Imboldened by the effect produced the day 
before on the Caroline, the furnaces of the enemy 
were put in operation, and numbers of hot shot 
thrown from a heavy piece, which was protected by 
the levee. An attempt was made to carry it &&. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 261 

In their endeavours to remove it, " I saw," says 
Commodore Patterson, " distinctly, with the aid of 
a glass, several balls strike in the midst of the men 
who were employed in dragging it away." In this 
engagement, waged for seven hours, we received 
little or no injury. The Louisiana sloop, against 
which the most violent exertions were made, had 
but a single man wounded, by the fragments of a 
shell, which burst over her deck. Our entire loss 
did not exceed nine killed, and eight or ten wound- 
ed. The enemy, being more exposed, acting in 
the open field, and in range of our guns, suffered 
considerable injury ; at least one hundred and 
twenty were killed and wounded. 

Among the killed, on our side, was Colonel James 
Henderson, of the Tennessee militia. An advance 
party of the British had, during the action, taken 
post behind a fence that ran obliquely to our line. 
Henderson, with a detachment of two hundred men, 
was sent out by General Carroll to drive them from 
a position whence they were greatly annoying our 
troops. Had he advanced in the manner directed, 
he would have been less exposed, and more effect- 
ually secured the object intended ; but, misunder- 
standing the order, he proceeded in a different 
route, and fell a victim to his error. Instead of 
marching in the direction of the wood, and turning 
the enemy, which might have cut off their retreat, 
he proceeded in front, towards the river, leaving 
them in rear of the fence, and himself and his detach- 
ment exposed. His mistake being perceived from 
the line, he was called by the adjutant-general, and 
directed to return ; but the noise of the waters, 
through which they were wading, prevented any 
communication. Having reached a knoll of dry 



262 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

ground, he attempted the execution of his order , but 
soon fell, by a wound in the head. Deprived of 
their commander, and perceiving their situation 
hazardous, the detachment retreated to the line, 
with the loss of their colonel and five men. 

While this advance was made, a column of the 
enemy was threatening our extreme left ; to frus- 
trate the attempt, Coffee was ordered with his rifle- 
men to hasten through the woods, and check their 
approach. The enemy, greatly superior to him in 
numbers, no sooner discovered his movement than 
they retired, and abandoned the attack they had 
meditated. 

A supposed disaffection in New Orleans, and an 
enemy in front, were circumstances well calculated 
to excite unpleasant forebodings. General Jackson 
believed it necessary to his security, while contend- 
ing with avowed foes, not to be wholly inattentive 
to dangers at home ; but, by guarding vigilantly, to 
be able to suppress any treasonable purpose the 
moment it should be developed. Previously to de- 
parting from the city, on the evening of the 23d, 
he ordered Major Butler, his aid, to remain with 
the guards, and be vigilant that nothing transpired 
in his absence calculated to operate injuriously. His 
fears that there were many of the inhabitants, who 
felt no attachment to the government, and would not 
scruple to surrender, whenever, prompted by their 
interest, it should become necessary, have been no- 
ticed. In this belief, subsequent circumstances evinc- 
ed there was no mistake, and showed that to his 
energy is to be ascribed the cause the country was 
saved. It is a fact, which was disclosed on making 
an exchange of prisoners, that, in despite of all our 
efforts, the enemy were daily apprized of every 



LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON 263 

thing that transpired in our camp. Every arrange- 
ment, and every change of position, was immediate- 
ly commivnicated. " Nothing," remarked a British 
officer, at the close of the invasion, " was kept a 
secret from us, except your numbers ; this, al- 
though diligently sought, could never be procured." 
Between the 23d and the attack, on the 28th, to 
carry our line, Major Butler, who still remained in 
the city, was applied lo by Fulwar Skipwith, speak- 
er of the senate, to ascertain the commanding gen- 
eral's views, provided he snould Be driven from his 
line of encampment, and compelled to retreat 
through the city; would he, in that event, destroy 
it? It was, indeed, a curious inquiry from one who, 
having 1 snent his life in serving his countrv, might 
better have understood the duty of a subordinate 
officer ; and that, even if, from his situation, Major 
Butler had so far acquired the confidence of his 
general as to have become acquainted with his de- 
signs, he was not at liberty to divulge them, with- 
out destroying confidence, and acting criminally. 
On asking the cause of the inquiry, Mr. Skipwith 
replied, it was understood that, if driven from his 
position, and made to retreat upon the city, General 
Jackson had it in contemplation to lay it in ruins ; 
the legislature, he said, desired information on this 
subject, that, if such were his intentions, they might, 
by offering terms of capitulation, avert so serious a 
calamity. That a sentiment, having for its object 
a surrender of the city, should be entertained by 
this body, was scarcely credible ; yet a few days 
brought the certainty of it more fully to view, and 
showed that they were already devising plans to 
ensure the safety of themselves and property at any 
sacrifice. While the general was hastening along 



264 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

ihe line, from ordering Coffee against a column of 
the British on the extreme left, he was hailed by 
Mr. Duncan, one of hie volunteer aids, and informed 
that it was agitated, secretly, by the members of 
the legislature, to offer terms of capitulation to the 
enemy, and proffer a surrender ; and that Governor 
Claiborne awaited his orders on the subject. Poised 
as was the result, the safety Or fall of the city rest- 
ing in uncertainty, although it was plainly to be 
perceived, that, with a strong army before them, no 
such resolution could be carried into effect, yet it 
might be productive of evil, and, in the end, bring- 
about the most fatal consequences. Even the dis- 
closure of such a wish, on the part of the legisla- 
tuie, might create parties, excite opposition in the 
army, and inspire the enemy with renewed confi- 
dence. The Tennessee forces, and Mississippi vol- 
unteers, it was not feared, would be affected by the 
measure ; but it might detach the Louisiana militia, 
and even extend itself to the ranks of the regular 
troops. Jackson was greatly incensed, that those, 
whose safety he had so much at heart, should be 
seeking, under the authority of office, to mar his 
best exertions. He was, however, too warmly press- 
ed at the moment, — for the battle was raging, — to 
give it the attention its importance merited ; but, 
availing himself of the first respite from the vio- 
lence of the attack waged against him, he apprized 
Governor Claiborne of what he had heard ; ordered 
him closely to watch the conduct of the legislature, 
and, the moment the project of offering a capitula- 
tion to the enemy should be fully disclosed, to place 
a guard at the door, and confine them to their cham- 
ber. The governor, in his zeal to execute the com- 
mand, and from a fear of the consequences involved 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 265 

in such conduct, construed as imperative an order 
which was merely contingent ; and, placing an 
armed force at the door of the capitol, prevented 
the members from convening-, and their schemes 
from maturing. 

The purport of this order was misconceived by 
the governor ; or, perhaps, with a view to avoid sub- 
sequent inconveniences, was designedly mistaken. 
Jackson's object was not to restrain the legislature 
in the discharge of their official duties ; for, al- 
though he thought that such a moment, when the 
sound of the cannon was constantly pealing in their 
ears, was inauspicious to wholesome legislation, and 
that it would have better comported with the state 
of the times for them to abandon their civil duties, 
and appear in the field, yet was it a matter indeli- 
cate to be proposed ; and it was hence preferred, 
that they should adopt whatever course might be 
suggested by their own notions of propriety. This 
sentiment would have been still adhered to ; but 
when, through the communication of Mr. Duncan, 
they were represented as entertaining schemes ad- 
verse to the general interest of the country, the ne- 
cessity of a different course of conduct was obvious 
But he did not order Governor Claiborne to interfere 
with their duties ; on the contrary, he was instruct- 
ed, so soon as any thing hostile to the genera] 
cause should be ascertained, to place a guavd at 
the door, and keep the members to their duty. " My 
object in this," remarked the general, ''was, that 
then they would be able to proceed with their business 
without producing the slightest injury: whatever 
schemes they might entertain would have remained 
with themselves, without the power of circulating 
them to the prejudice of any other interest than 
23 



266 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

their own. Claiborne mistook my order, and, instead 
of shutting- them in doors, contrary to ray wishes,, 
turned them out." 

Before this he had been called on by a special 
committee of the legislature to know what his course 
would be, should necessity drive him from his posi 
tion. "If," replied the general, " I thought the hair 
of my head could divine what I should do, I would 
cut it off: go back with this answer ; say to your 
honourable body, that, if disaster does overtake me ; 
and the fate of war drives me from my line to the 
city, they may expect to have a very warm session." 
" And what did you design to do," one inquired, " pro- 
vided you had been forced to retreat?" "I should,'' 
he replied, " have retreated to the city, fired it, and 
fought the enemy amidst the surrounding flames. 
There were with me men of wealth, owners of 
considerable property, who, in such an event, would 
have been amongst the foremost to have applied the 
torch to their own buildings ; and what they had 
left undone, I should have completed. Nothing for 
the comfortable maintenance of the enemy would 
have been left in the rear. ,1 would have destroyed 
New Orleans, occupied a position above on the 
river, cut off all supplies, and in this way compel- 
led them to depart from the country." 

We shall not pretend to ascribe this conduct to 
disaffection to the government, or to treasonable 
motives. The impulse that produced it was, no 
doubt, interest — a principle of the human mind 
which strongly sways, and often destroys, its best 
conclusions. The disparity of the two armies, in 
numbers, preparation, and discipline, had excited 
apprehension, and destroyed hope. If Jackson 
were driven back, — and little else was looked for,— 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 267 

rumour fixed his determination of devoting 1 the city 
to destruction ; but, even if such were not his in- 
tention, the vengeance of the enemy might be fairly 
calculated to be in proportion to the opposition they 
should receive. The government was represented 
in the person of the commanding general, on whom 
rested all responsibility, and whose voice, on the 
subject of resistance or capitulation, should alone 
have been heard. In the field were persons, en- 
during hardships, and straining every nerve, for the 
general safety. A few of the members of their 
own body, too, were there, who did not despond.* 

Additional guards were posted along the swamp, 
on both sides of the Mississippi, to. arrest all inter- 
course ; while on the river, the common highway 
watch-boats were constantly plying, during the 
night, in different directions, so that a log could 
scarcely float down the stream unperceived. Two 
flat-bottomed boats, on a dark night, were turned 
adrift above, to ascertain if vigilance were preserv- 
ed, and whether there would be any possibility of 
escaping the guards, and passing in safety to the 
British lines. The light boats discovered them on 
their passage, and, on the alarm being given, they 
were opened upon by the Louisiana sloop, the bat- 
teries on the shore, and in a few minutes were 
sunk. In spite, however, of every precaution, Trea- 
son discovered avenues, through which to project 
and execute her nefarious plans, and through them 



* Only four members of the legislature appeared in the field to 
defend their country. We regret not knowing the name of one 
of these persons : those we have ascertained are, General Gar- 
rigue Flojnck, Major Eziel, and Mr. Bufcrt, who, abandoning 
their civil duties lor the field, afforded examples worthy of imita- 



tion 



268 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

was constantly afforded information to the enemy , 
carried to them, no doubt, by adventurous friends, 
who effected their nightly passage through the 
deepest parts of the swamp where it was impossi- 
ble for sentinels to be stationed. 

Great inconvenience was sustained for the want 
of arms, and much anxiety felt, lest the enemy, 
through their faithful adherents, might, on this sub- 
ject also, obtain information ; to prevent it, as far 
as possible, General Jackson endeavoured to con- 
ceal the strength of his army, by suffering his re- 
ports to be seen by none but himself and the adju- 
tant-general. Many of the troops in the tield were 
supplied with common guns, which were of little 
service. The Kentucky troops, daily expected, 
were also understood to be badly provided with 
arms. Uncertain but that the city might yet con- 
tain many articles that would be serviceable, orders 
were issued to the mayor of New Orleans, direct- 
ing him to inquire through every store and house, 
and take possession of all the muskets, bayonets, 
spades and axes he could find. Understanding 
too, there were many young men, who, from differ- 
ent pretexts, had not appeared in the field, he was 
instructed to obtain a register of every man in the 
city, under the age of fifty, that measures might be 
concerted for drawing forth those who had hitherto 
appeared backward in the pending contest. 

Frequent light skirmishes, by advanced parties, 
without material effect on either side, were the only 
incidents that took place for several days. Colonel 
Hinds, at the head of the Mississippi dragoons, on 
the 30th, was ordered to dislodge a party of the 
enemy, who, under cove : of a ditch that ran across 
the plain, were annoying our fatigue partie-3. In 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 269 

his advance, he was unexpectedly thrown into an 
ambuscade, and became exposed to the tire of a 
line, which had hitherto been unobserved. His 
collected conduct, and gallant deportment, gained 
him and his corps the approbation of the command- 
ing general, and extricated him from the danger in 
which he was placed. The enemy, forced from 
their position, retired, and he returned to the line, 
with the loss of live men. 
23* 



27 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 



CHAPTER X. 

AUack of (he \st of January.— General Jackson's line of <l fence. 
— Kentucky troops arrive at head-quarters. — British army re- 
enforced ; their preparations for attack. — Battle of the 3th of 
January, and repulse of the cumin . — American redoubt carried, 
and retaken. — Colonel Thornton proceeds against General 
Morgan's lin<, and takes possession of it. — Letter of Capiam 
Wilkinson. — British watch ivord. — Generous conduct of the 
American soldicn. — Morgan's line regained. — General Lambert 
requests a suspension of hostilities. — Armistice concluded. — Ex- 
ecution of an American soldier by the British. 

The British were encamped two miles below the 
American army, on a perfect plain, in full view. 
Although foiled in their attempt to carry our works 
by their batteries on the 2Sth, they resolved upon 
another attack, which they believed would be more 
successful. Presuming- their failure to have arisen 
from not having sufficiently strong batteries and 
heavy ordnance, a more enlarged arrangement was 
resorted to, with a confidence of silencing opposi 
tion. The interim between the 28th of December 
nnd 1st of January was spent in preparing to exe- 
cute their designs. Their boats had been de- 
spatched to the shipping, and an additional supply 
of heavy cannon landed through Bayou Bienvenu, 
whence they had first debarked. 

During the night of the 31st, they were busily 
engaged. An impenetrable fog, next morning, not 
dispelled until nine o'clock, by concealing their 
purpose, aided them in the plans they were project- 
ing, and gave time for the completion of their works. 
This having disappeared, several heavy batteries, 
at the distance of six hundred yards, mounting 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 271 

eighteen and twenty-four pound carronades, were 
presented to view. No sooner was it sufficiently 
clear to distinguish objects at a distance, than these 
were opened, and a tremendous burst of artillery 
commenced, accompanied with congreye rockets, 
that filled the air in all directions. Our troops, pro- 
tected by a defence, which, from their constant la- 
bours, they believed to be impregnable, undisturbed, 
maintained their ground, and, by their skilful 
management, succeeded in dismounting the guns of 
the enemy. The British, through the friendly in- 
terference of some disaffected citizens, having been 
apprized of the situation of the general's quarters, 
that he dwelt in a house at a small distance in the 
rear of his lire of defence, against it directed their 
first and principal efforts, with a view to destroy the 
commander. So great was the number of balls 
thrown, that, in a little while, its porticos were beat- 
en down, and the building made a complete wreck. 
In this design they were disappointed ; for with 
Jackson it was a constant practice, on the first ap- 
pearance of danger, not to wait in his quarters, 
watching events, but instantly to proceed to the 
line, to form arrangements as circumstances might 
require. Constantly in expectation of a charge, he 
was never absent from the post of danger: and 
thither he had this morning repaired, at the first 
sound of the cannon, to aid in defence, and inspire 
his troops with firmness. Our guns, along the 
line, now opened, to repel the assault, and a con- 
stant roar of cannon, on both sides, continued until 
nearly noon ; when, by the superior skill of our 
engineers, the two batteries formed on the right, 
next the woods, were nearly beaten down, and 
many of the guns dismounted, broken, and render 



272 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

ed useless. That next the river still continued its 
fire, until three o'clock ; when, perceiving all at- 
tempts to force a breach ineffectual, the enemy gave 
up the contest, and retired. Every act of theirs 
discovers a strange delusion, and unfolds on what 
wild and fanciful grounds all their expectations 
were founded. 

That they could effect an opening, and march 
through the strong defence in their front, was an 
idea so fondly cherished, that an apprehension of 
failure had scarcelv occurred. So sanguine were 
they in this belief, that, early in the morning, their 
soldiers were arranged along the ditches, in rear of 
their batteries, ready to advance to the charge, the 
moment a breach could be made. Here, by their 
situation, protected from danger, they remained, 
waiting the result. But, their efforts not having 
produced the slightest impression, nor their rockets 
the effect of driving our militia away, they aban- 
doned the contest, and retired to their camp, leav- 
ing their batteries materially injured. 

It occurred to the British commander, an attack 
might be made to advantage next the woods, and a 
force was accordingly ordered to penetrate in this 
direction, and turn the left of our line, which was 
supposed not to extend farther than to the margin of 
the swamp. In this way, it was expected a diver- 
sion could be made, while the reserve columns, 
being in waiting, were to press forward the moment 
this object could be effected. Here, too, disap- 
pointment resulted. Coffee's brigade, being extend- 
ed into the swamp as far as ii w?s possible for an 
advancing party to penetrate, brought unexpected 
dangers into view, and occasioned an abandonment 
of the project. That to turn the extreme left of 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON* 273 

the line was practicable, and might be attempted, 
was the subject of early consideration ; and neces- 
sary precaution bad keen taken to prevent it. — 
Although cutting the lever had raised the water in 
ihe swamp, and increased the difficulties of keep* 
ing- troops there, yet a fear lest this pass Blight be 
sought by the enemy, and the rear of the line gain- 
ed, had determined the general to extend his de- 
fence even here. This had been intrusted to 
General Coffee; and rarely a more arduous duty 
can scarcely be imagined. To form a breastwork, 
in rach a place, was- attended with many difficul- 
ties, ami considerable exposure. A alight defence, 

however, had been thrown up, and the un-ieiwood, 
for thirty or forty yards in front, cut down, that the 
riflemen, stationed for its protection, might have a 
complete view of any force, which might attempt 
a passage. When it is re< Uect d this position 
was to be maintained night and day, uncertain of 
the moment of attack, and that the only opportunity 
afforded our troops for rest was <»n logs and brush, 
by which they were raised above the surrounding 
\. iter, it may be truly said, that seldom lias it fall- 
en to the lot of any to encounter greater hardships : 
but, accustomed to privation, and alive to those fc 
ings which a love of country inspires, they obeyed, 
ami cheerfully kept their position until danger h 
subsided. Sensible of the importance of the p ant 
they defended, that it was necessary to be main- 
tained, be the sacrifice what it might, they looked 
to nothing but a faithful discharge of the trust con- 
fided to them. 

Oui loss, in this affair, was eleven killed, and 
twenty-three wounded: that of the em mv was 
never correctly known. The only certain infonaa 



274 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

tion is contained in a communication of the 2Sth 
instant from General Lambert to Earl Bathurst, in 
which the loss, from the 1st to the 5th, is stated 
at seventy-eight. Many allowances, however, are 
to be made for this report. From the great pre- 
cision of our fire, their loss was, no doubt, consider- 
able. — The enemy's heavy shot having penetrated 
our intrenchment, in many places, it was dis- 
covered not to be as strong as had been imagined. 
Fatigue parties were again employed, and its 
strength daily increased : an additional number of 
bales of cotton were taken to be applied to defend- 
ing the embrasures. A Frenchman, whose property 
had been thus, without his consent, seized, fearful 
of the injury it might sustain, proceeded in person 
to General Jackson, to reclaim it, and to demand its 
delivery. The general, having heard his complaint, 
and ascertained from him that he was unemployed 
In any military service, directed a musket to be 
brought to him, and, placing it in his hand, ordered 
him on the line, remarking, at the same time, that, 
as he seemed to be a man possessed of property, 
he knew of none who had a better right to fight, to 

CD O ' 

defend it. 

It was understood by Jackson, that the enemy 
were in daily expectation of re-enforcements ; though 
he rested with confidence in the belief, that a few 
more days would also bring to his assistance the 
troops from Kentucky. Each party, therefore, was 
constantly engaged in preparation, the one to wage 
a vigorous attack, the other to oppose it. 

The position of the American army was in the 
rear of an intrenchment formed of earth, which 
extended in a straight line from the river to a con 
eiderable distance in the swamp. In front was a 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 275 

deep ditch, which had been formerly used as a mill- 
race. The Mississippi had receded, and left this 
dry, next the river, though in many places the 
water still remained. Along the line, at unequal 
distances, to the centre of General Carroll's com- 
mand, were guns mounted, of different caliber, from 
six to thirty-two pounders. Near the river, in ad- 
vance of the intrenchment, was a redoubt, with 
embrasures, commanding the road along the levee, 
calculated to rake the ditch in front. 

General Morgan was ordered, on the 24th of 
December, to cross to the west bank of the Missis- 
sippi. From apprehension that an attempt might 
be made through Barrataria, and the city reached 
from the right bank, the general had extended his 
defence there : in fact, unacquainted with the ene- 
my's views, — not knowing the number of their 
troops, lie had carefully divided out his forces, that 
he might be able to protect, in whatever direction an 
assault should be waged. His greatest fears, and 
hence his strongest defence, next to the one occu- 
pied by himself, was on the Chef Menteur road, 
where Governor Claiborne, at the head of the 
Louisiana militia* was posted. The position on the 
right was formed on the same plan with the line on 
the left, — lower down than that on the left, extend 
ing to the swamp at right angles with the river 
Here Genera' Morgan commanded. 

To be prepared against every possible contin 
gency, Jackson had established another line of de- 
fence, about two miles in the rear of the one at 
present occupied, which was intended as a rallying 
point, if driven from his first position. With the 
aid of his cavalry, to give a momentary check to 
the advance of the enemy, he expected to be en 



276 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

abled, with inconsiderable injury, to reach it ; where 
he would again have advantages on his side, be in 
a situation to dispute a farther passage to the city, 
and arrest their progress. To inspirit his own 
soldiers, and to exhibit to the enemy as great a 
show as possible of strength and intended resist- 
ance, his unarmed troops, which constituted no 
very inconsiderable number, were here stationed. 
AH intercourse between the lines, but by confiden- 
tial officers, was prohibited, and every vigilance em- 
ployed, not only to keep this want of preparation 
concealed from the enemy, but even from being 
known on his own lines. 

Occasional firing at a distance, which produc"»vi 
nothing of consequence, was all that marked the 
interim from the 1st to the 8th. 

On the 4th of this month, the long-expected re- 
enforcement from Kentucky, amounting to twenty- 
two hundred and fifty, under Major-General Thomas, 
arrived at head-quarters ; but so ill provided with 
arms, as to be incapable of rendering any consider- 
able service. The alacrity with which the citizen* 
of this state had proceeded to the frontiers, anc 
aided in the north-western campaigns, added to the 
disasters which ill-timed policy or misfortune had 
produced, had created such a drain, that arms were 
not to be procured. They had advanced, however, 
to their point of destination, with an expectation of 
being supplied on their arrival. About five hun- 
dred of them had muskets ; the rest were provided 
with guns, from which little or no advantage could 
be expected. The mayor of New Orteans, at the 
request of General Jackson, had drawn from the 
city every weapon that could be found ; while the 
arrival of the Louisiana militia, in an equally im 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 27" 

prepared situation, rendered it impossible for the 
evil to be effectually remedied. A boat, laden with 
arms, was somewhere on the river, intended for the 
use of the lower country ; but where it was, or 
when it. might arrive, rested alone on conjecture. 
Expresses had been despatched up the river, for 
three hundred miles, to hapten it on ; still there 
were no tidings of an approach. That so many 
brave men should be compelled to stand with fold- 
ed arms, unable to render the least possible service 
to their country, was an event, which did not fail 
to excite the sensibility of the general. J lis mind, 
prepared for any thing but despondency, sought re- 
lief in vain. No alternative was presented, but to 
place them at his intrenchment in the rear, conceal 
their actual condition, and, by the show they might 
make, add to his appearance, without at all increas- 
ing his strength. 

information was received, that Major-General 
Lambert had joined the British commander-in-chief, 
with a considerable re-enforcement. It had been 
announced in the American camp, that additional 
forces were expected, and something decisive might 
be looked for, so soon as they should arrive. This 
circumstance, with others, had led to the conclusion 
that a few days more would, in all probability, de- 
cide the fate of the city. It was more than ever 
necessary to keep concealed the situation of his 
army ; and, above all, to preserve as secret as pos- 
sible its unarmed condition. To restrict all com- 
munication, even with his own lines, was now, as 
danger increased, rendered more important None 
were permitted to leave the line, and none from 
without to pass into camp, but such as were to be 
implicitly conlided in. The line of sentinels was 
24 



278 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

strengthened in front, that none might pass to the 
enemy, should desertion be attempted : yet, not- 
withstanding this precaution, his plans were dis- 
closed. On the night of the 6th, a soldier from 
the line, by some means, succeeded in eluding the 
vigilance of our sentinels. Early next morning 
his departure was discovered : it was at once cor- 
rectly conjectured he had gone to the enemy, and 
would, no doubt, afford them all the information in 
his power. He unfolded to the British the situa- 
tion of the American line ; the late re-enforcements 
we had received, and the unarmed condition of 
many of the troops ; and, pointing to the centre of 
General Carroll's division as a place occupied by 
militia alone, recommended it a3 the point where 
an attack might be most safely made. 

Other intelligence received was confirmatory cf 
the belief of an impending attack. From some 
prisoners, taken on the lake, it was ascertained the 
enemy were busily engaged in deepening Villery's 
Canal, with a view of passing their boats and ord- 
nance to the Mississippi. During the 7th, a con- 
stant bustle was perceived in the British camp. 
Along the borders of the canal, their soldiers were 
continually in motion, marching and manoeuvring, for 
no other purpose than to conceal those who were 
busily engaged at work in the rear. To ascertain 
the cause of this uncommon stir, and learn their de- 
signs, as far as was practicable, Commodore Patter- 
son had proceeded down the river, on the opposite 
side, and, having gained a favourable position, in 
front of their encampment, discovered them to be 
actually engaged in deepening the passage to the 
river. It was no difficult matter to divine their pur- 
pose. No other conjecture could be entertained, 



LIFE OF Cr.M'.lIAL JACKSON. 279 

than that an assault v.;;s intended to be made on 
the Jine of defence commanded by General Mor- 
gan ; which, if gained, would expose our tioops on 
the left hank to the fire of the redoubt erected on 
UhJ right; and in this way compel them to an 
abandonment of their position. To counteract this 
scheme was important j and me - wore imme- 
diately taken to prevent the execution of a plan, 
which, if successful* would be attended with incal- 
culable dangers. An increased strength was riven 

D Do 

to this line. The second regiment of Louisiana 

militia, and four hundred Kentucky troops, were 
directed to be crossed over, to protect it. Owing 
to some delay in arming them, ths latter, amount- 
ing, instead of four hundred, bo but one hundred 
and eighty, did not arrive until tlie morning of the 
8th. A little before day, th< re despatched to 

aid an advanced party, who, and command 

of Major Arnaut, had been sent to watch the move- 
ments of the enemy, ami oppose their landing-. 
The hopes indulged from their opposition were not 
realized ; and the enemy reached the shore. 

Morgan's position, besides being strengthened by 
several brass twelves, was defended by a strong 
battery, mounting twenty-four pounders, directed 
by Commodore Patterson, which afforded additional 
urity. The line itself was not strong, yet, if 
properly maintained by the 'roups selected to de- 
fend it, was believed ru.Hy adequate to the purp. 
of successful resistance. Late at night, Patter 
ascertained the enemy had succeeded in passing 
their boats through the canal, and immediately 
communicated his information to the general. The 
commodore had formed the idea of dropping the 
Louisiana schooner down, to attack and sink them. 



280. LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

This thought, though well conceived, was abandon- 
ed, from the danger involved, and from an appre- 
hension lest the batteries erected on the river, with 
which she would come in collision, might, by the 
aid of hot shot, succeed in blowing her up. It was 
preferred to await their arrival, believing it would 
be practicable, with the bravery of more than fifteen 
hundred men, and the slender advantages possessed 
from their line of defence, to maintain their position. 
On the left bank, where the general in person 
commanded, every thing was in readiness to meet 
the assault when it should be made. The redoubt 
on the levee was defended by a company of the 
seventh regiment, under the command of Lieuten- 
ant Ross. The regular troops occupied that part 
of the intrenchment next the river. General Car- 
roll's division was in the centre, supported by the 
Kentucky troops, under General John Adair ; while 
the extreme left, extending for a considerable dis- 
tance into the swamp, was protected by the brigade 
of General Coffee. How soon the attack would 
6e wao-ed was uncertain. General Jackson, un- 
moved by appearances, anxiously desired a con- 
test, which he believed would give a triumph 
to his arms, and terminate the hardships of his 
soldiers. Unremitting in exertion, and constantly 
vigilant, his precaution kept pace with the zeal and 
preparation of the enemy. He seldom slept: he 
was always at his post, performing the duties of 
both general and soldier. His sentinels were 
doubled, and extended as far as possible in the di- 
rection of the British camp ; while a considerable 
portion of the troops were constantly at the line, 
with arms in their hands, ready to act. when the 
first alarm should be given. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 281 

For cio-hl divs had the two armies lain upon tho 
E3inc field, and in view of each other, without any 
thing decisive on either side. Twice, since their 
landing, had the British columns essayed to effect 
by storm the execution of their plans, and twice 
had failed, and been compelled to relinquish the 
attempt. It was not to be expected that things 
could lon<r remain in this dubious state. 

The 8th of January at length arrived. The day 
dawned; and the signals, intended to produce con- 
cert in the enemy's movements, were descried. 
On the left, near the swamp, a sky-rocket was per- 
ceived rising in the air ; and presently another as- 
cended from the right, next the river. They were 
intended to announce that all was ready, to carry 
by storm a defence which had twice foiled their ut- 
most efforts. Instantly the charge was made, and 
with such rapidity, that our soldiers, at the out- 
posts, with difficulty fled in. 

The British batteries, which had been demolished 
on the 1st of the month, had been re-established 
during the preceding night, and heavy pieces of 
cannon mounted, to aid in their intended operations. 
These now opened, and showers of bombs and balls 
were poured upon our line ; while the air was light- 
ed with their congreve rockets. The two divisions, 
commanded by Sir Edward Packenham in person, 
and supported by Generals Keane and Gibbs, press- 
ed forward ; the right against the centre of Gene- 
ral Carroll's command, the left against our redoubt 
on the levee. A thick fog, that obscured the morn- 
ing, enabled them to approach within a short dis- 
tance of our intrenchment. before they were dis- 
covered; They were now perceived advancing, 
with firm, (Jirck, and steady pace, m column, with 
).i * 



2S2 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

a front of sixty or seventy deep.. Our troops, who 
had for some time been in readiness, gave three 
cheers, and instantly the whole line was lighted 
with the blaze of their fire. A burst of artillery 
and small arms, pouring with destructive aim upon 
them, mowed down their front, and arrested their 
advance. In our musketry there was not a mo- 
ment's intermission ; as one party discharged their 
pieces, another succeeded ; alternately loading and 
appearing, no pause could be perceived, — it was 
one continued volley. The columns already per- 
ceived their dangerous situation. Battery No. 7, 
on the left, was ably served by Lieutenant Spotts, 
and galled them with an incessant fire. Batteries 
No. 6 and 8 were no less actively employed, and no 
less successful in felling them to the ground. Not- 
withstanding the severity of our fire, which few 
troops could for a moment have withstood, some of 
those brave men pressed on, and succeeded in 
gaining the ditch, in front of our works, where they 
remained during the action, and were afterwarr.3 
made prisoners. The horror before them was t.oo 
great to be withstood ; and already were the E/'dsh 
troops seen wavering in their determination, and 
recedino- from the conflict. At this moment, Sir 
Edward Packenham, hastening to the front, en- 
deavoured to inspire them \vith renewed zeal. His 
example was of short continuance ; he soon fell, 
mortally wounded, in the arms of his aid-de-camp, 
not far from our line. Generals Gibbs and Keane 
also fell, and were borne from the field, dangerous- 
ly w T ounded. At this moment, General Lambert, 
who was advancing at a small distance in the rear, 
with the reserve, met the columns precipitately re- 
treating, and in great confusion. His efforts to 



LIFE OF GENERAL J4CKSON. 283 

"top them were unavailing, — they continued re- 
treating, until they reached a ditch, at the distance 
of four hundred yards, where, a momentary safety 
being found, they were rallied, and halted. 

The field before them, over which they had ad- 
vanced, was strewed with the dead and dying. 
Danger hovered still around ; yet, urged and en- 
couraged by their officers, who feared their own 
disgrace involved in the failure, they again moved 
to the charge. They were already near enough to 
deploy, and were endeavouring to do so ; but the 
same constant and unremitted resistance that caused 
their first retreat continued yet unabated. Our 
batteries had never ceased their fire; their constant 
discharges of grape and canister, and the fatal 
aim of our musketry, mowed down the front of the 
columns as fast as they could be formed. Satisfied 
nothing could be done, and that certain destruction 
awaited all further attempts, they forsook the field 
in disorder, leaving it almost entirely covered with 
the dead and wounded. It was in vain their offi- 
cers endeavoured to animate them to further resist- 
ance, and equally vain to attempt coercion. The 
panic produced from the dreadful repulse they had 
experienced ; the plain, on which they had acted 
being covered with innumerable bodies of theii 
countrymen ; while, with their most zealous exer 
tions, they had been unable to obtain the sliffhtesl 
advantage, — were circumstances well calculated ta 
make even the most submissive soldier oppose the 
authority that would have controlled him. 

The light companies of fusilecrs, the forty-third 
and ninety-third regiments, and one hundred men 
from the West India regiment, led on by Colonel 
Ronnie, were ordered to proceed under cover of 



2S4 LTFE OF GENERAL JACRSON. 

some chimneys, standing in the ficid, until hrving 
cleared them, to oblique to the river, and advance, 
protected by the levee, against our redoubt on the 
right. This work, having been but lately com- 
menced, was in an unfinished state. It was not 
until the 4th, that General Jackson, much against 
his own opinion, had yielded to the suggestions of 
others, and permitted its projection ; and, consider- 
ing the plan on which it had been sketched, it had 
not yet received that strength necessary to its safe 
defence. The detachment ordered against this 
place formed the left of General Keane's command. 
Ronnie executed his orders with great bravery ; 
and, urging forward, arrived at the ditch. His ad- 
vance was greatly annoyed by Commodore Patter- 
son's battery on the left bank, and the cannon 
mounted on the redoubt ; but, reaching our works, 
and passing the ditch, Rennie, sword in hand, 
leaped on the wall, and, calling to his troops, bade 
them follow ; he had scarcely spoken, when he fell 
by the fatal aim of our riflemen. Pressed by the 
impetuosity of superior numbers, who were mount- 
ing the wall, and entering at the embrasures, our 
troops had retired to the line, in rear of the redoubt. 
A momentary pause ensued, but only to be inter- 
rupted with increased horrors. Captain Beal, with 
the city riflemen, cool and self-possessed, perceiv- 
ing the enemy in his front, opened upon them, and 
at every discharge brought the object to the ground. 
To advance, or maintain the point gained, was 
equally impracticable for the enemy : to retreat or 
surrender was the only alternative ; for they already 
"perceived the division on the right thrown into con- 
fusion, and hastily leaving the field. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 285 

General Jackson, being informed of the success 
of the enemy on the right, and of their being in 
possession of the redoubt, pressed forward a re-en- 
forcement to regain it. Previously to its arrival 
they had abandoned the attempt, and were retiring. 
They were severely galled by such of our guns as 
could be brought to bear. The levee afforded them 
considerable protection ; yet, by Commodore Patter- 
son's redoubt, on the right bank, they suffered 
greatly. Enfiladed by this, on their advance, they 
had been greatly annoyed, and now, in their re- 
treat, were no less severely assailed. Numbers 
found a grave in the ditch, before our line ; and of 
those who gained the redoubt, not one, it is believ- 
ed, escaped ; — they were shot down as fast as they 
entered. The route, along which they had advanc- 
ed and retired, was strewed with bodies. Affright- 
ed at the carnage, they moved from the scene in 
confusion. Our batteries were still continuing the 
slaughter, and cutting them down at every step : 
safety seemed only to be attainable when they 
should have retired without the range of our shot, 
which, to troops galled as severely as they were, 
was too remote a relief. Pressed by this considera- 
tion, they lied to the ditch, whither the right divis- 
ion had retreated, and there remained until night 
permitted them to retire. 

A considerable portion of our troops were inactive 
for the want of arms to place in their hands. If 
this had not been the case — had they been in a 
situation to have acted efficiently, the whole British 
aruiv must have submitted. 

Colonel Hinds was very solicitous, and in person 
applied to the commanding general for leave to 
pursue, at the head of his dragoons, the fleeing 



286 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

columns of the enemy: Jackson, however, would 
not permit it. " My reason for refusing," he re- 
marked, " was, that it might beccvne necessary to 
sustain him, and thus a contest in the open field be 
brought on : the lives of my men were of value to 
their country, and much too dear to their families 
to be hazarded where necessity did not require it ; 
bur, above all, from the numerous dead and wounded 
stretched out en the field before me, I felt a con 
fidence that the safety of the city was most proba 
bly attained, and hence, that nothing calculated to 
reverse the good fortune we had met should be 
attempted." 

The efforts of the enemy to carry our line of de- 
fence on the left were seconded by an attack on 
the right bank, with eight hundred chosen troop3, 
under the command of Colonel Thornton. Owing 
to the difficulty of passing the boats from the canal 
to the river, and the strong current of the Missis- 
sippi, the troops destined for this service were not 
crossed, nor the opposite shore reached, for some 
hours after the expected moment of attack. By 
the time he had effected a landing, the day had 
dawned, and the flashes of the guns announced the 
battle. Supported by three gun-boats, he hastened 
forward, with his command, in the direction of Mor- 
gan's intrenchment. 

Some time during the night of the 7th, two hun- 
dred Louisiana militia had been sent off, to watch 
the movements of the enemy, and oppose him in 
his landino- : this detachment, under the command 
of Major Arnaud, had advanced a mile down the 
river, and halted ; either supposing the general in- 
correct, in apprehending an attack, or that his men, 
if refreshed, would be more competent to exertion, 



LITE OF GENERAL JACKSON- 287 

ho directed them to lie down and sleep . one man 
only was ordered to be upon the watch, lest the 
enemy should approach them undiscovered. Just 
at day, he called upon his sleeping companions, and 
!>ade them rise, for he had heard a considerable 
bustle a little below. No sooner risen, than con- 
firmed in the truth of what had been stated, they 
moved off in the direction they had come, without 
even attempting an execution of their orders. The 
Kentucky troops, having reached Morgan at five 
o'clock in the morning, were immediately sent to 
co-operate with the Louisianians. Major ]>avis, 
who commanded, had proceeded about three quar- 
ters of a mile, and met those troops hastily retreat- 
ing up the road ; he ascertained from them that the 
enemy had made the shore ; had debarked, and 
were moving rapidly up the levee. He informed 
them for what purpose he had been despatched, — 
to oppose an approach as long as practicable, and, 
with their assistance, he would endeavour to exe- 
cute his orders. 

The two detachments, now acting together, form- 
ed behind a saw-mill-race, skirted with a quantity 
of p-!ank and scantling, which afforded a tolerable 
shelter. Davis, with his two hundred Kentuckians, 
formed on the road next the river, supported by the 
Louisiana militia on the right. The enemy appear- 
ing, their approach was resisted, and a spirited 
opposition for some time maintained. The British 
again advanced, and again received a heavy lire. 
At this moment, General Morgan's aid-de-camp, 
who was present, perceiving the steady advance of 
the enemy, and fearing for the safety of the troops, 
ordered a retreat. Confusion was the consequence 
—order could not be maintained, and the whole 



288 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

fled, in haste, to Morgan's line. Arriving in safetv, 
though much exhausted, they were immediately 
directed to form, and extend themselves to the 
swamp ; that the right of the intrenchment might 
not be turned. 

Colonel Thornton, having reached an orange 
grove, about seven hundred yards distant, halted ; 
and, examining Morgan's line, found it to "consist 
of a formidable redoubt on the river," with its 
weakest and most vulnerable point towards the 
swamp. He directly advanced to the attack, in 
two divisions, against the extreme right and centre 
of the line ; and, having deployed, charged the in- 
trenchment, defended by about fifteen hundred men. 
A severe discharge, from the field-pieces mounted 
along our works, caused the right division to ob- 
lique, which, uniting with the left, pressed forward 
to the point occupied by the Kentucky troops. 
Perceiving themselves thus exposed, and having 
not yet recovered from the emotions produced by 
their first retreat, they began to give way, and verv 
soon abandoned their position. The Louisiana 
militia gave a few fires, and followed the example 
Through the exertions of the officers, a momentar/ 
halt was effected ; but a burst of congreve rockets 
falling thickly, and setting fire to the sugar-cane, 
and other combustibles around, again excited their 
fears, and they moved hastily away ; nor could they 
be rallied, until, at the distance of two miles, having 
reached a saw-mill-race, they were formed, and 
placed in an attitude of defence. 

Commodore Patterson, perceiving the right flank 
about to be turned, had ceased his destructive fire 
against the retreating columns on the opposite 
ehore, and turned his guns to enfilade the enemy 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 289 

next the swamp ; but, at the moment when he ex- 
pected to witness a firm resistance, and was in a 
situation to co-operate, he beheld those, without 
whose aid all his efforts were unavailing, suddenly 
thrown into confusion, and forsaking their posts. 
Discovering he could no longer maintain his ground, 
he spiked his guns, destroyed his ammunition, and 
retired from a post where he had rendered the most 
important services. 

In the panic that produced this disorderly retreat, 
at a moment when resistance was expected, are to 
be found circumstances of justification, which might 
have occasioned similar conduct even in disciplined 
troops. The weakest part of the line was assail- 
ed by the greatest strength of the enemy : this was 
defended by one hundred and eighty Kentuckians, 
who were stretched out to an extent of three hun- 
dred yards, and unsupported by any pieces of artil- 
lery. Thus openly exposed to the attack of a 
greatly superior force, and weakened by the ex- 
tent of ground they covered, it is not to be won- 
dered at, or deserving of reproach, that they should 
have considered resistance ineffectual, and forsaken 
a post, which they had strong reasons for believing 
they cculd not maintain. General Morgan report- 
ed to General Jackson the defeat, and attributed it 
to the flight of those troops, who had also drawn 
along with them the rest of his forces. It is true, 
they were the first to flee ; and equally true, that 
their example may have had the effect of producing 
general alarm ; but in point of advantageous situa- 
tion, the troops materially differed : the one party 
were exposed, and enfeebled by the manner of their 
arrangement; the other, though superior in numbers, 
covered no greater extent of ground, and were dc- 
25 



290 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

fended by an excellent breastwork, and several 
pieces of cannon : with this difference, the loss of 
confid-ence of the former was not without sufficient 
cause. Of these facts Commodore Patterson was 
not apprized ; General Morgan was : both, however, 
attributed the disaster to the flight of the Kentucky 
militia. Upon their information General Jackson 
founded his report to the secretary of war, by 
which those troops were exposed to censures 
they did not merit. Had all the circumstances, as 
they existed, been disclosed, reproach would have 
been prevented. At the mill-race, no troops could 
have behaved better: they were well posted, and 
bravely resisted the advance of the enemy, nor, un- 
♦il an order to that effect was given, had entertain- 
eu a thought of retreating. 

The heart-felt joy at the glorious victory achiev- 
ed on one side of the river was clouded by the dis- 
aster witnessed on the other. A position was gain- 
ed which secured to the enemy advantages the 
most important.; and whence our whole line, on the 
left bank, could be severely annoyed. But for the 
precaution of Commodore Patterson, in spiking his 
guns, and destroying the ammunition, it would have 
been in the power of Colonel Thornton to have com- 
pletely enfiladed our line of defence, and rendered 
it untenable. Fearful lest the guns might be un- 
spiked, and brought to operate against him, General 
Jackson hastened to throw detachments across, with 
orders to regain the position at every hazard. To 
the troops on the right bank, he forwarded an ad- 
dress, with a view to excite them to deeds of vaU 
ourAnd inspirit them to exertions that should wipe 
off the reproach they had drawn upon themselves, 
Previously, however, to their being in readiness to 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 291 

act, he succeeded by stratagem in re-obtaining his 
lost position, and thus spared the effusion of blood. 
The I033 of the British, in the main attack on the 
left bank, has been variously stated. The killed, 
wounded, and prisoners, ascertained, on the next 
day after the battle, by Colonel Hayne, the inspec- 
tor-general, places it at twenty-six hundred. Gen- 
eral Lambert's report to Lord Bathurst makes it 
but two thousand and seventy. From prisoners, 
however, and information derived through other 
sources, it must have been even greater than is 
stated by either. Among them was the command- 
er-in-chief, and xMajor-General Gibbs, who died o" 
his wounds the next day, besides many of their 
most distinguished officers ; while the loss of the 
Americans, in killed and wounded, was but thir- 
teen.* 

It appears to have been made a question by the 
British officers, if it would not be more advisable to 
carry General Morgan's line, and refrain from any 
attempt on this side the river. It was believed, 
that, if successful in this attack, they would be able' 
to force General Jackson from his intrenchment 
and pass with the main body of the army to the city. 
A letter found in the possession of Captain Wilkin- 
son, a British officer, who fell in the battle, to a 
friend at home, in the war department, speakino- n 
this subject, shows tha t a difference of opinion pre- 

* Our effective force, at the fine on the left bank was three 
tisane! seven hundred ; that of the enemy at least nine hoUand 
The W , a led Louisiai]a has been ^ einoj sand 

be, t mferma ton places ,t at about fourteen thousand? A r art of 
tins acted w.h Colonel Thornton ; the climate had re defed nanv 
unfit for the dut.es of the field ; while a considerab™ numbed Tad 

Si, ^/, L " ' tlerefore , may be fairly estimated on thu 

6lb< at the number we have stated ; at any rt ue ; not less 



29*2 LIFE OF 'GENERAL JACKSON. 

vailed, and confesses his own as being decidedly in 
favour of a vigorous attack on both sides. It bears 
date late on the night of the 7th, nor does it appear, 
although he was a captain and brigade-major, that 
lie, at that time, knew whether an assault was se 
riously intended against Jackson's line, or was de- 
signed as a feint, to aid the operations of Colonel 
Thornton. With the true spirit of a British officer, 
however, he indulged a hope of success,— enter- 
tained no fears for the result, nor doubted but that 
the Americans would at once retire before their 
superior skill and bravery. A general order, which 
must have been communicated after he had written, 
disploang the manner of attack, on the left, where 
he acted, was also found with the letter. In that 
the fusileers and light troops were instructed, after 
reaching our line, to act as a pursuing squadron, 
and keeo up alarm, while the army on the right 
should press closely in the rear and support them. 
It breathes an assurance of success, and shows with 
what anxiety they looked to the approaching morn- 
inn-, as likely to bring with it a successful termina- 
tion of their labours, and a triumph over a toe 
whose advantages, more than bravery, they suppos- 
ed, had so long baffled their efforts. 

Let it be remembered of that gallant but mis- 
guided general, who has been so much deplored by 
the British nation, that, to the cupidity of his sol- 
diers, he promised the wealth of the city, as a rec- 
ompense for their gallantry ; while, with brutai 
licentiousness, they were to revel in lawless indul- 
gence, uncontrolled, over female innocence, bcenes 
like these, our nation, insulted, had already witness- 
ed : she had witnessed them at Hampton and Havre- 
de-Grace: but it was reserved for her yet to learn 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 293 

that an officer of the standing of Sir Edward Pack- 
enham, polished, generous, and brave, should, to 
induce his soldiers to acts of daring valour, permit 
them, as a reward, to insult and injure those whom 
all mankind, even savages, respect. The facts 
which were presented at the time of this transac- 
tion left no doubt on the minds of our officers, but 
that " Beauty and Booty' 1 '' was the watch-word of 
the day. The information was obtained from pris- 
oners, and confirmed by the books of two of their 
orderly-sergeants taken in battle, which contained 
record proof of the fact. 

A communication, shortly after, from Major-Gen- 
eral Lambert, on whom, in consequence of the fall 
of Generals Packenham, Gibbs, and Keane, the com- 
mand had devolved, acknowledges that he had wit- 
nessed the kindness of our troops to his wounded. 
He solicited of General Jackson permission to send 
an unarmed party to bury the dead, lying before his 
lines, and to bring off such of the wounded as were 
dangerous. The request to bury the dead was 
granted. General Jackson refused to permit a near 
approach to his line, but consented that the wound- 
ed, who were at a greater distance than three hun- 
dred yards from the intrenchment, should be re- 
lieved, and the dead huried : those nearer were, by 
his own men, to be delivered over, to be interred 
by their countrymen. This precaution was taken, 
that the enemy might not have an opportunity to 
inspect, or know any thing of his situation. 

General Lambert, desirous of administering to the 
wants of the wounded, and that he might be reliev- 
ed from his apprehensions of attack, proposed, about 
noon, that hostilities should cease until the same 
hour the next day. General Jackson, cherishing 
25* 



291 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSOiV. 

the hope of being able to secure an important ad- 
vantage, by his apparent willingness to accede tc 
the proposal, drew up an armistice, and forward- 
ed it to General Lambert, with directions for it to 
be immediately returned if approved. It contain- 
ed a stipulation to this effect — that hostilities, on 
the left bank of the river, should be discontinued 
from its ratification, but on the right bank they 
should not cease ; and that, in the interim, under 
no circumstances were re-enforcements to be sent 
across by either party. This was a bold stroke at 
stratagem ; and, although it succeeded, even to the 
extent desired, was attended with considerable haz- 
ard. Re-enforcements had been ordered over to 
retake the position lost by Morgan in the morning, 
and the general presumed they had arrived at their 
point of destination ; but, at this time, they had not 
passed the river, nor could it be expected to be re- 
taken with the same troops who had yielded it the 
day before, when possessed of advantages which 
gave them a decided superiority : this the com- 
manding general well knew ; yet, to spare the sac- 
rifice of his men, which, in regaining it, he foresaw 
must be considerable, he was disposed to venture 
upon a course, which, he felt assured, could not fail 
to succeed. It was impossible his object could be 
discovered ; while he confidently believed the Brit- 
ish commander would infer, from the prompt man- 
ner in which his proposal had been met, that such 
additional troops were already thrown over, as 
would be fully adequate to the purposes of attack, 
and greatly to endanger, if not wholly to cut off, 
Colonel Thornton's retreat. General Lambert's 
construction was such as had been anticipated. Al- 
though the armistice contained a request that it 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. f>95 

should be immediately signed and returned, it was 
neglected to be acted upon until the next day ; and 
Thornton and his command were, in the interim, 
under cover of the night, re-crossed, and the ground 
they occupied left to be peaceably possessed by the 
original holders. The opportunity thus afforded of 
regaining a position on which, in a great degree, 
depended the safety of those on the opposite shore, 
was accepted with an avidity its importance merit- 
ed, and immediate measures taken to increase its 
strength, and prepare it against any future attack 
that might be made. This delay of the British com- 
mander was evidently designed, that, pending the 
negotiation, and before it was concluded, an oppor- 
tunity might be had, either of throwing over re-en- 
forcements, or removing Colonel Thornton and his 
troops from a situation so extremely perilous. Early 
next morning, General Lambert returned his ac- 
ceptance of what had been proposed, with an apol- 
ogy for having failed to reply sooner : he excused 
the omission, by pleading a press of business, which 
had occasioned the communication to be overlooked. 
Jackson was at no loss to attribute the delay to the 
correct motive : the apology, however, was as per- 
fectly satisfactory to him as any thing that could have 
been offered ; beyond the object intended to be effect 
ed, he felt unconcerned, and, having secured this, 
rested perfectly satisfied. It cannot, however, ap- 
pear otherwise than extraordinary, that this neglect 
should have been ascribed by the British general to 
accident, or a press of business, when it must have 
been, no doubt, of greater importance, at that mo- 
ment, than any thing which he could possibly have 
had before him. 



296 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

The armistice was this morning (9th of January) 
concluded, and agreed to continue until two o'clock 
m the evening. The dead and wounded were now 
removed from the field, which, for three hundred 
yards in front of our line of defence, they almost 
literally covered. For the reason already suggest- 
ed, our soldiers, within the line of demarcation be- 
tween the two camps, delivered over to the British, 
who were not permitted to cross it, the dead ior 
burial, and the wounded on parole, for which it was 
stipulated, an equal number of American prisoners 
should be restored. 

It has seldom happened that officers were more 
deceived in their expectations than they were in 
the result of this battle, or atoned more severely lor 
their error : their reasoning had never led them to 
conclude, that militia would maintain their ground 
when warmly assailed : a firm belief was enter- 
tained, that, alarmed at the appearance and orderly 
approach of veteran troops, they would at once tor- 
sake the contest, and in flight seek for safety. At 
what part of our line they were stationed, was as- 
certainpd by a deserter, on the 6th; and, influenced 
by a belief of their want of nerve, and deficiency in 
bravery, on this point the main assault was urged. 
They were indeed militia; but the enemy could 
have assailed no part of our intrenchment where 
they would have met a warmer reception, or where 
they would have found greater strength : it was 
indeed the best defended part of the line. The 
Kentucky and Tennessee troops, under Generals 
Carroll, Thomas and Adair, were here, who had 
already won a reputation that was too dear to be 
sacrificed. These divisions, alternately charge 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 297 

their pieces, and mounting the platform, poured 
forth a constant fire, that was impossible to be 
withstood, repelled the advancing columns, and 
drove them from the field with prodigious slaugh- 
ter. 

There is one fact told, to which general credit 
seems to be attached, and which clearly shows the 
opinion had by the British of our militia, and the 
little fear which was entertained of any determined 
opposition from them. When repulsed from our 
line, the British officers were fully persuaded that 
the information given them by the deserter, on the 
night of the 6th, was false, and that, instead of 
pointing out the ground defended by the militia, he 
had referred them to the place occupied by our best 
troops. Enraged at what they believed an inten- 
tional deception, they called their informant before 
them, to account for the mischief. It was in vain 
he urged his innocence, and, with the most solemn 
protestations, declared he had stated the fact truly. 
They could not be convinced, — it was impossible 
that they had contended against any but the best 
disciplined troops ; and, without further ceremony, 
the poor fellow, suspended in view of the camp, ex- 
piated, on a tree, not his crime, for what lie had 
stated was true, but their error, in underrating an 
enemy who had already afforded abundant evidences 
of valour. In all their future trials with our coun- 
trymen may thev be no less deceived ! 



293 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 



CHAPTER XL 

Bombardment of Fort St. Philip. — Brif.ish army retire to their 
shipping. — General Jackson, with his troops, returns to New 
Orleans. — Day of tlianksgiving . — Reduction of Fort Botoyer. 
— Legislature of Louisiana re-commence tlieir session. — Discon- 
tents fomented among the American troops. — Arrest oj LoujxH- 
lier ; of Judge Hall. — Peace announced. — General Jackson is 
prosecuted for contempt of court ; his apoearance in court. — 
Speech at the coffee-house. — His oum opinion- of martial law* — 
Troops are discharged, and the general returns to Nashville.— 
Reduction oj tlxe army. — Jackson' s commission as general annul 
led. — Treaty with Spain. — He is appointed governor of the Flor- 
idas. — Transactions there. — His resignatioji. — He is appointed 
minister to Mexico ; declines the miss-ion ; his reasons ; is elect' 

' ed a senator of the United States ; 7-esigns Ui.e office. — His 
person and cluxracter. — Anecdotes* — Conclusion 

The conflict had ended, and each army occupied 
its former position. The enemy were visibly alter- 
ed : menace \\p.s sunk into dejection, and offensive 
measures yielded to those which promised safety 
They were perceived to be erecting partial defences, 
to guard against expected attack. It had been an- 
nounced, that a considerable force had succeeded in 
passing the Balize — made prisoners of a detach- 
ment, and was proceeding up the Mississippi, to co- 
operate with the land forces : it was intended to 
aid in the battle of the 8th. The enemy, it seem- 
ed probable, might again renew the attack, on the 
arrival of this force, and every preparation was in 
progress to be again in readiness. 

Of this formidable advance no certain intelli- 
gence was received until the night of the 11th, 
when a heavy cannonading, supposed to be on Fort 
St. Philip, was distinctly heard. Jackson entertain- 
ed no fears for the result. The advantages in de- 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 299 

fence, which his precaution had early extended to 
this passage to the city, added to an entire confi- 
dence in the skill of the officer to whom it had 
been confided, led him to believe there was nothing 
to be apprehended. The enemy's squadron, con- 
sisting of two bomb vessels, a brig, sloop, and 
schooner, were discovered by the videttes, from 
Fort Bourbon, on the morning of the 9th, directing 
their course up the river ; signals were made, in- 
formation communicated, and every thing was in 
readiness to receive them. About ten o'clock, hav- 
ing approached within striking distance, an assault 
was commenced on the fort, and an immense quan- 
tity of bombs and balls was discharged against it. 
A severe and well-directed fire from our water bat- 
tery soon compelled them to retire about two miles. 
At this distance, the enemy was possessed of de- 
cided advantages, — having it in their power to reach 
the fort with the shot from their large mortars, while 
they were entirely without the range of ours. 
The assault continued without much intermission, 
from the Oth until the night of the 17th. They had 
hitherto lain beyond the effective range of our shot, 
and although, from their large mortars, the fort had 
been constantly reached, and pierced in innumera- 
ble places, still, such an effect had not been pro- 
duced, as to justify a belief, that they could now, 
more than at the moment of their arrival, venture 
to pass. A heavy mortar having been turned 
against them on the 17th, the security they had 
hitherto enjoyed was taken away: their vessels 
could now be reached with considerable effect. 
This circumstance, and an ineffectual bombardment, 
which, though continued for eight days, had secur- 
ed no decided advantage, induced them to suspend 



300 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

all further efforts ; and, on the morning of the 18th, 
they retired. 

Major Overton, who commanded at this place, 
his officers and soldiers, distinguished themselves. 
To arrest the enemy's passage up the river, and 
prevent them from uniting with the forces below the 
city, was of great importance ; and to succeed in 
this was as much as could be expected. So long, 
therefore, as they kept at a distance, nor attempted 
a final accomplishment of their object, no other con- 
cern was felt than to watch their manoeuvres, and 
adopt such a course as should afford safety to the 
troops in the garrison : for this purpose, pieces of 
timber and scantling were used, which formed a 
cover, and gave protection from their bombs. The 
store of ammunition was also divided, and buried in 
different places in the earth, that, in the event of 
accident, the whole might not be lost. During the 
period of the bombardment, which lasted with little 
intermission for nine days, sleep was almost a stran- 
ger in the fort. The night was the time when most 
of all it was feared the enemy, aided by the dark- 
ness, and some fortunate breeze, would have it in 
their power to ascend the river, in despite of every 
opposition : the constant activity, which was neces- 
sary, prevented all opportunities for repose. On a 
tempestuous night, the wind setting fair to aid them, 
an attempt was made to pass : to divert the atten- 
tion of the fort, and favour the chances for ascent, 
their boats were sent forward to commence an at- 
tack. In this they were disappointed, and compel- 
led to abandon the undertaking. At length, after 
many fruitless efforts, and an immense waste of la- 
bour and ammuniti m, they retired without effecting 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 301 

their purpose, or producing, to us, a greater injury 
than the loss of nine of the garrison, who were kill- 
ed and wounded. 

The failure of this squadron to ascend the river, 
perhaps, determined General Lambert in the course 
which he immediately adopted. His situation be- 
fore our line was truly an unpleasant one. Our 
batteries, after the 8th, wore continually throwing 
balls and bombs into hi3 camp ; and wherever a 
party of troops appeared in the field, they were 
greatly annoyed. Thus harassed, — perceiving all 
assistance through this channel had failed, and 
constantly in apprehension lest an attack should be 
made upon him, — he resolved on availing himself 
of the first favourable opportunity to depart, and 
forsake a contest where every effort had met dis- 
appointment, and where an immense number of his 
troops had found their graves. The more certainly 
to effect, a retreat in safety, detachments had been 
sent out to remove every obstruction that could re- 
tard their progress through the swamp. To give 
greater facility to his departure, strong redoubts 
were erected on the way, and bridges thrown across 
every creek and bayou that obstructed the passage. 
Every thing being thus prepared, on the night of 
the 18th, General Lambert silently decamped, and, 
proceeding towards the lake, embarked for his ship- 
ping, leaving, and recommending to the clemency 
of the American general, eighty of his soldiers, who 
were too severely wounded to be removed. With 
such silence was this decampment managed, that 
not the slightest intelligence was communicated, 
even to our sentinels occupying the out-posts. Early 
on the next morning, the enemy's camp was perceiv- 
ed to be evacuated ; but what had become of them, 
26 



302 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

and whither fhey had gone, could only be conjec- 
tured : no information on the subject was possessed. 
To ascertain the cause of this new appearance of 
things, detachments were in readiness to reconnoi- 
tre their camp, when Surgeon Wadsdale, of the 
staff, arrived at our line, with a letter to General 
Jackson, from the British commander, announcing 
his determination to suspend, " for the present, all 
further operations against New Orleans," and re- 
questing his humanity towards the wounded he had 
left, whom necessity had compelled him to abandon. 

Detachments were sent out to ascertain the cause 
of this unexpected state of things; with orders to 
harass their rear, if a retreat were really intended. 
But the precaution taken by the enemy, and the 
ground over which they were retreating, prevented 
pursuit in sufficient numbers to secure any valua- 
ble result. 

Thus, in total disappointment, terminated an in- 
vasion from which much had been expected. Twen- 
ty-six days before, flushed with the hope of certain 
victory, had this army erected its standard on the 
banks of the Mississippi. At that moment, they 
would have treated with contempt an assertion, that 
in ten days they would not enter the city of New 
Orleans. How changed the portrait from the ex- 
pected reality ! But a few days since, and they 
were confident of a triumph, and a termination of 
their labours : now, vanquished and cut to pieces, 
at midnight, under the cover of its darkness, they are 
found silenily abandoning their camp, — breaking 
to pieces their artillery, — fleeing from an enemy, 
whom, but a little while before, they had held.in ut' 
ter contempt, and submitting their wounded to his 
clemency. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSO.V. 303 

The enemy had indeed retired, and, " for the 
present, relinquished ail further operations against 
New Orleans ;" but of what continuance their for- 
bearance would be, whether they might not avail 
themselves of the first flattering opportunity to re- 
new the struggle, and wipe oil* the stain of a defeat 
so wholly unexpected, could not be known. The 
hopes and expectations indulged in England, of the 
success of this expedition, had inspirited the whole 
army ; and failure had never been anticipated. 
They had now retired ; yet, from their convenient 
situation, and having command of the surrounding 
waters, it was in their power, at a short notice, to 
re-appear, at the same, or some more favourable 
point, cause a repetition of the hardships already 
encountered, and, perhaps, succeed in the accom- 
plishment of their views. These considerations led 
General Jackson to conclude, that, although, for the 
present, there was an abandonment of the enter- 
prise, still it behooved him not to relax in his sys- 
tem of defence ; but be in constant readiness to 
maintain the advantages he had gained : and not 
to risk a loss of the country by a careless indiffer- 
ence, growing out of the belief that danger had 
subsided. 

The enemy being again at their shipping, with 
an entire control of the lakes and gulf, it could not 
be known at what point they might venture on a 
second attack. General Jackson determined to 
withdraw his troops from the position they had so 
long occupied, and place them about the city, 
whence, to repel any further attempt that might be 
made, they could be advanced wherever it should 
become neressnry. The seven'h regiment of in- 
fantry remained to protect the point he was leaving ; 



304 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

while, farther in advance, on Villery's Canal, where 
a landing had been first effected, were posted a de- 
tachment of Kentucky and Louisiana militia. To 
secure this point more effectually, orders were giv- 
en, on the 22d, to throw up a strong fortification at 
the junction of Manzant and Bayou Bienvenu ; which 
order was again attempted to be executed on the 
25th. On both occasions failure was the result, 
from the circumstance of the enemy having, on 
their retreat, left a strong guard at this place, 
which, from its situation, defied approach by a force 
competent to its reduction. Their occupying this 
position was looked to as a circumstance which af- 
forded strong evidence that further hostilities were 
not wholly abandoned. To counteract, however, 
any advantages which might thence be derived, dif- 
ferent points along the swamp, and in the direction 
of Terre au Bceuf, were occupied, and strong works 
erected. 

These arrangements being made, calculated, if not 
to prevent, to give intelligence of an approach in 
time to be resisted, on the 20th of January, Gene- 
ral Jackson, with his remaining forces, commenced 
his march to New Orleans. The general glow ex- 
cited at beholding his entrance into the city, at the 
head of a victorious army, was manifested by all 
those feelings which patriotism inspires. The win- 
dows and streets were crowded, to view the man 
who had preserved the country It was a scene 
well calculated to excite the tenderest emotions. 
Fathers, sons, and husbands, urged by the necessity 
of the times, were toiling in defence of their wives 
and children. A ferocious soldiery, skilled in the 
art of war, and to whom every indulgence had been 
promised, were straining to effect their object. The 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 305 

tender female, relieved from the anguish of sus- 
pense, no longer trembled for her safety and her 
honour : a new order of things had arisen : joy 
sparkled in every countenance ; while scarcely a 
widow or an orphan was seen, to cloud the general 
transport. The general, under whose banners ev- 
ery thing had been achieved, deliberate, and spar- 
ing of the lives of the brave, had dispelled the storm 
which had so long threatened the ruin of thousands ; 
and was now restoring, unhurt, those who had with 
him maintained the contest. His approach was 
hailed with acclamations. All greeted his return, 
and hailed him as their deliverer. 

The 23d having been appointed a day of prayer 
and thanksgiving for the happy deliverance effect- 
ed by our arms, Jackson repaired to the cathedral. 
The church and altar were splendidly decorated, 
and more than could obtain admission had crowded 
to witness the ceremony. A grateful recollection 
of his exertions to save the country was cherished 
by ail ; nor did the solemnity of the occasion, even 
here, restrain a manifestation of their regard, or in- 
duce them to withhold the honour he had so nobly 
earned. Children, robed in white, and represent- 
ing the different states, were employed in strew- 
ing the way with flowers ; while, as he passed, a 
flattering ode, produced for the occasion, saluted 
his ears : — 

Hail to the chief! who hied at war s alarms 
To save our threatened land from hostile arms; 
Preserved, protected by his gallant care, 
Be liis the grateful tribute of each fair : 
Willi joyful triumph swell the choral lay — 
Strew, strew with flow'rs the hero's welcome way. 
Jackson, all hail ! — our country's pride and boast,— 
Whose mind's a council, and his arm a host" 

2G * 



306 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

Welcome, blest chief! accept our grateful lays, 
Unbidden homage, and spontaneous praise; 
Remembrance long shall keep alive thy lame, 
And future infants learn to lisp thy name. 

When the general reached the church, Dubourg, 
the reverend administrator of the diocess, met him 
at the door. Addressing him in a strain of pious 
eloquence, he entreated him to remember, that his 
splendid achievements, which were echoed from 
every tongue, were to be ascribed to Him to whom 
all praise was due. « Let the votary of blind chance," 
continued he, " deride our credulous simplicity. Let 
the cold-hearted atheist look for an explanation of 
important events to the mere concatenation of hu- 
man causes : to us, the whole world is loud in pro- 
claiming a Supreme Ruler, who, as he holds the 
destiny of man in his hands, holds also the thread 
of all contingent occurrences : from his lofty throne, 
he moves every scene below,— infuses his wisdom in- 
to the rulers of nations, and executes his uncontrolla- 
ble judgments on the sons of men, according to the 
dictates of his own unerring justice." He conclud- 
ed his impressive address, by presenting the gene- 
ral with a wreath of laurel, woven for the occasion, 
and which he desired him to accept as " a prize of 

victory." , 

General Jackson accepted the pledge, presented 
as a mark of distinguished favour by the reverend 
prelate, and returned him a reply no less impressive 
than the address he had received. He was now 
conducted in, and seated near the altar, when the 
church ceremonies were commenced, and inspired 
every mind with a solemn reverence for the occa- 
sion. These being ended, he retired to his quar- 
ters, to renew a system of defence, which should 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 307 

ensure entire safety, and ward off any future dan- 
ger that might arise. The right bank of the Mis- 
sissippi was now strengthened by additional re-en- 
forcements, and a strong position taken on La 
Fourche, to prevent any passage in that direction. 
Suitable arrangements for security having been al- 
ready made below the city, Generals Coffee and 
Carroll were instructed to resume their former en- 
campment, four miles above. The rest of the troops 
were arranged at different points, where necessity 
seemed most to require it. 

Previously to General Lambert's departure, arti- 
cles of agreement had been entered into by the 
commanders of the two armies, for an exchange ot 
prisoners ; in pursuance of which, sixty-three 
Americans, taken on the night of the 23d, had 
been delivered up : the remainder, principally taken 
at the capture of our gun-boats, were afterwards 
surrendered by Admiral Cochrane, and an equal 
number of British prisoners sent off to be delivered 
at the Balize. 

The enemy had now withdrawn from the shore 
the troops which had been landed, and occupied 
their former position at Cat and Ship Islands. Mor- 
tified at their unexpected disaster, they were pro- 
jecting a plan, by which it was expected a partial 
advantage might, perhaps, be secured, and the stig- 
ma of defeat be somewhat obliterated. 

Fort Bowyer had been once assailed, with a con- 
siderable force, by land and water, and failure had 
resulted. This post, the key to Mobile, of infinite 
consequence, had been retained under the com- 
mand of him, who, heretofore, had defended it so 
valiantly. The British commander, turning from 
those scenes of disappointment, and anxious to re- 



303 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

trieve his fortunes, before, with his shattered and 
diminished forces, he should retire, perceived no 
place against which he might proceed with better 
founded hopes of success. 

On the 6th of February, the British shipping ap- 
peared off Dauphin Island, fronting the point on 
which stood the fort, garrisoned with three hundred 
and sixty men. Having made the necessary ar- 
rangements, on the 8th an attack was commenced, 
both from the land and water. The fleet was form- 
ed in two divisions, and approached within one and 
two miles, bearing south and south-west from it. 
But the principal attack, and that which compelled 
a surrender, was from the shore, where Colonel 
Nicholls and Woodbine had carried on their opera- 
tions in September. Five thousand troops, aided by 
pieces of heavy ordnance, secured from the fire of 
our guns by large embankments, urged the assault. 
Under cover of the two succeeding nights, redoubts 
had been thrown up. and trendies cut through the 
sand, which enabled them to approach gradually, 
without being exposed to the fire of our guns. 
Twice, on the Sth, were detachments sent out, to 
effect by storm the accomplishment of their pur- 
pose ; but the fire from the fort compelled an aban- 
donment of their course, and drove them to the ne- 
cessity of approaching by trenches, protected by 
strong redoubts. To demolish these from the fort 
was impracticable from their strength ; and to at- 
tempt to prevent their erection by any sortie, with 
so weak a force, would have been imprudent. Thus 
situated, and every thing being ready to attack the 
fort, if opposition were still intended, about ten 
o'clock on the 11th the enemy hoisted a flag: Major 
Lawrence raised another. Hostilities ceased, and 



LIFE OF GFxNERAL JACKSON. 309 

General Lambert required a surrender. The offi- 
cers, being convoked, with one consent agreed that 
further resistance would be ineffectual, and could 
only lead to the unnecessary loss of many valuable 
lives. A capitulation was agreed on, and the fort 
forthwith yielded to the enemy. 

General Winchester, who commanded at Mobile, 
having received intelligence of what was passing 
at the point, ordered a detachment of a thousand 
men, under Major Blue, to proceed down the bay, 
and aid in its defence. This auxiliary force was too 
late : having surprised and captured one of the en- 
emy's out pickets, consisting of seventeen men, and 
ascertained that a surrender had already taken 
place, they returned. Had this detachment reach 
ed its destination, our loss would have been more 
severe. The enemy's forces were too numerous, 
and their means of attack too effectual, for any 
different result to have taken place, even had the 
detachment arrived in time. 

It had early been the wis* of General Jackson, 
for the large frigate, lying at Tchifonte, to be com- 
pleted, and placed in defence of Fort Bowyer. We 
have before remarked the confidence entertained 
by him, that, with the aid of this vessel, no force 
brought against the place would be competent to 
its reduction. Near it is the only channel a vessel 
of any size can pass. This frigate, occupying the 
passage, would have presented as strong a baltery 
as could be brought against her, and, with the aid 
of the fort, defied any assault from the water ; 
while her position would have enabled her to have' 
thrown her bombs and shot across the narrow neck 
of land, in the rear of the point, and arrested the ad • 
vance of any number of troops, which, in this dlrec 



310 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

tion, might have attempted an approach. Yet more 
money had been disbursed by the government in 
erecting shelters, to protect the frigate from the 
weather, than would have been sufficient for her 
completion. 

The legislature of Louisiana had re-commenced 
their session. Some of the members, during the 
Dast struorjrle, had forsaken their official duties, and 
repaired to the field, where more important services 
were to be rendered, and where they had manifest- 
ed a devotion to the country worthy of imitation. 
A much greater part, however, had pursued a very 
opposite course, and stood aloof from the impending 
danger. The disposition they had shown, on the 
28th of December, to propose a capitulation, has 
been adverted to : how far it was calculated to es- 
trange the public sentiment from that conviction, 
which the commanding general had endeavoured 
to impress, " that the country could and would be 
successfully defended," can be easily imagined, 
But with them he had sinned beyond forgiveness. 
The course he had adopted — his arresting their 
proceedings, and suspending their deliberations, by 
placing an armed force at the door of the capitol, 
were viewed as intolerable infringements upon le- 
gislative prerogative, denounced as an abuse of 
power, and hence the first opportunity was seized 
to exhibit their resentment. 

No sooner had the members resumed the exer- 
cise of their legislative duties, than their first con- 
cern was to pass in review the incidents of the last 
month. To those who had acted vigilantly in the 
defence of the state, and who, by their toils and ex- 
ertions, had contributed to its safety, they officially 
tendered their thanks. In pursuance of their reso- 



LIFE OF GLNEHAL JACKSON. 3l| 

Jutions, the governor addressed the principal off] 
cers ; but of Jackson nothing was said. We are 
not disposed to censure, or even call in question, the 
conduct of this body, though the circumstances pre- 
sent no very favourable appearance. When dan- 
ger threatened, they were disposed to make terms 
with the enemy, by a surrender of the city : from 
this they were prevented by a decision of charac- 
ter that compelled legislative to yield to military 
authority. Greatly incensed at being thus unex- 
pectedly restrained in the execution of their de- 
signs, no sooner did they resume the duties of their 
station, than they became lavish in the praise of 
those who pursued a course directly contrary to 
their own ; while in that commendation they inten- 
tionally neglected the very man, to whom their sec- 
tion of the country was indebted for its salvation. 

Appearances in the American camp were about 
this time assuming an unfavourable aspect: present 
danger being removed, confusion was arising, and 
disaffection spreading through the ranks. Pretexts 
were sought after to escape the drudgery of the 
field. Many naturalized citizens, who had been 
brought into the service, to aid in the general de- 
fence, were seeking exemption from further control, 
and claiming to be subjects of the king of France. 
Some were indeed foreigners ; but most of them 
had, by naturalization, become citizens of the Unit- 
ed States. Notwithstanding this, as French sub- 
jects, they were actually procuring exonerations 
through Monsieur Toussard, the consul resident at 
New Orleans. No applicant ever went away un- 
supplied, and hundreds, for the price of a consular 
certificate, obtained protections which were to re- 
lieve them from the drudgery of the field, and the 



312 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON* 

ties due to their adopted country A flag was dis- 
played from the consul's residence, and rumour cir- 
culated, that under it every Frenchman would find 
protection. Five dollars, the price of the certificate, 
was all that was required of any applicant to assure, 
through the consel, the protection of the French 
government. Harassed by such evils, every day 
increasing, and having satisfactory reasons to be- 
lieve the enemy, then within a few hours' sail of the 
shore, were constantly advised of his situation, Jack- 
son determined to adopt such measures as would at 
once put down the machinations of the designing. 
Toussard, thus manifesting — what could be consid- 
ered in no other light — a warmth of attachment to 
the English, and a desire to aid them, for the ser- 
vices, perhaps, which they had given in the restora- 
tion of his monarch, was ordered to leave the city, 
retire to the interior of the country, nor venture to 
return, until peace was restored. His countrymen, 
also, who were disposed to claim his protection, 
and abandon the service, were ordered to fol- 
low him, and, at their peril, not to appear again 
about New Orleans. The general did this with a 
view to his own security, from a conviction that 
those who could thus shamefully seek to avoid a 
contest, threatened against a country which they 
had adopted, would not scruple, if an occasion of- 
fered, to inflict any injury in their power. 

Our own citizens, too, were giving rise to diffi- 
culties, and increasing the danger of the moment. 
Mr. Livingston had arrived, on the 10th, from the 
British fleet, whither he had gone to effect a gen- 
eral cartel : through him, Admiral Cochrane had an- 
nounced the arrival of a vessel from Jamaica, with 
news, that a treaty of peace had been agreed on, 



LirE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 313 

and signed by the two countries. This information 
was immediately caught at by the news-mongers, 
and, either from intention or want of correct intel- 
ligence, it suddenly appeared in the Lo-uisiana Ga- 
zette, in an entirely different shape : it stated the 
arrival of a flag at head-quarters, which announced 
the conclusion of a peace, and requested a suspen- 
sion of hostilities. It was evident the effect of 
.such a declaration would be to introduce lassitude, 
or perhaps disaffection, among the troops, and induce 
a belief that their accustomed vigilance was no long- 
er necessary. Sensible of this, General Jackson sent 
for the editor, and instructed him to alter what he 
had stated, and exhibit the facts, which he now com- 
municated to him, truly as they were. He adopted 
this course from fear of the consequences to be 
produced to himself. One thing he well knew, that 
the enemy had retired under circumstances of mor- 
tification at their complete discomfiture ; nor was it 
an improbable conjecture that they might yet seek 
an accomplishment of their views through anv 
channel a hope of success could be discerned. 
Might not this annunciation of peace, and request 
for the suspension of hostilities, introduced through 
the public journals, be a device of the enemy to in- 
duce a relaxation in his system of operation ; to di- 
vert his officers and soldiers from that activity so 
essential to security ; to excite discontents, and .% 
desire to be discharged from the further drudg- 
ery of a camp ? All these dangers he saw lurking 
beneath it, if false ; and, whether true or false, it 
was foreign to his duty to be influenced by any 
thing, until it should be officially communicated by 
his government. Fearful of the effect it might 
produce, he lost no time in addressing his army • 
27 



314 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

" How disgraceful," he remarked, " as well as disas- 
trous, would it be, if, by surrendering ourselves 
credulously to newspaper publications, often pro- 
ceeding from ignorance, but more frequently from 
dishonest design, we should permit an enemy, whom 
we have so lately and so gloriously beaten, to re- 
gain the advantages he has lost, and triumph ovej 
us in turn !" A general order, at the same time, an 
nounced that no publication relating to, or affect 
ing the army, was to be published in any newspa- 
per, without permission first obtained. 

Notwithstanding this prohibition, shortly after- 
wards an anonymous publication appeared in the 
Courier, calculated by its inflammatory character 
to excite mutiny among the troops, and afford the 
enemy intelligence of the disposition of the army. 
It was high time, the general believed, to act with 
decision, and prove, by the rigid exercise of author- 
ity, that such conduct militated against the police 
and safety of his camp, and required not to be pass- 
ed with impunity. The enemy had^ heretofore ef- 
fected a landing without opposition ; and, although 
beaten, might again return. If spies were to be 
nestled in his camp, and permitted to go forth to the 
world with the gleanings of their industry, it was 
folly to believe the enemy would not profit by the 
information. Martial law still prevailed in New 
Orleans, and he resolved to put it in execution 
against those who manifested such an evident dis- 
regard of the public good. The editor was imme- 
diately sent for to the general's quarters ; he stat- 
ed the author of the piece to be Louaillier, 

a member of the legislature, and he was thereupon 
discharged. 



UFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 315 

Louaillier was arrested, and detained for trial. 
This circumstance afforded civilians a fair opportu- 
nity of testing if it were in the power of a com- 
manding general to raise the military above the civ- 
il authority, and render it superior by any declara- 
tion of his. Application was made to Judge Hall 
for a writ of habeas corpus, which was immediate- 
ly issued. The genera], to render the example as 
efficacious as possible, and from information that 
the judge had been much more officious than his 
duty required, and believing, in fact, that it was a 
measure of concert to test his power, determined 
to arrest him also, and thereby at once to settle the 
question of authority. 

Instead of surrendering Mr. Louailliei, and act- 
ing in obedience to the writ which had issued for 
his relief, he seized the person of the judge, and, on 
the 11th of the month, sent him from the city, with 
these instructions — " I have thought proper to 
send you beyond the limits of my encampment, to 
prevent a repetition of the improper conduct with 
which you have been charged. You will remain 
without the line of my sentinels until the ratifica- 
tion of peace is regularly announced, or until the 
British shall have left the southern coast." 

The spirit of discontent had become extensively 
diffused. The different posts, which had been es- 
tablished, could with difficulty be maintained. The 
Kentucky troops, and two hundred of the Louisia- 
na militia, stationed in defence of Villery's Canal, 
had abandoned their post. Chef Menteur, too, a 
po'int no Jess important, had been forsaken by one 
hundred and fifty of the Louisianians, in despite of 
the exertions of their officers to detain them. Gov- 
ernor Claiborne had been heard to declare, in words 



316 LIFE OF (5ENERAL JACKSON. 

of mysterious import, that serious difficulties would 
be shortly witnessed in New Orleans. For the 
commanding general, at a time like this, when dis- 
affection was spreading like contagion through his 
camp, patiently to have stood and witnessed muti 
ny fomented and encouraged by persons, who, from 
their standing in society, were calculated to pos- 
sess a dangerous influence, would have been a crime 
for which he never could have atoned. He thought 
it time enough to relax in his operations, and ground 
his arms, when the conclusion of peace should be 
announced through the proper authorities. Until 
then, believing that imperious duty required it, he 
resolved to maintain his advantages, and check op- 
position, at every hazard. To have obeyed the writ 
would have been idle. He had declared the exist- 
ence of military authority, and thereby intended to 
supersede all judicial power. If he had obeyed the 
mandate, it would have been an acknowledgment ot 
civil supremacy, and a virtual abandonment of the 
course he had adopted. It was not an improbable 
event, that the petitioner would be discharged, on a 
hearing, because guilty of no offence cognizable by 
the civil courts. 

On the 13th of the month, two days after the 
departure of Judge Hall from the city, an expresg 
reached head-quarters, with despatches from the 
war department, at Washington, announcing the 
conclusion of a peace between Great Britain and the 
United States, and directing a cessation of hostili- 
ties. A similar communication from his govern 
ment was received by General Lambert shortly af- 
terwards, and on the 19th military operations, by 
the two armies, entirely ceased. The aspect of af 
fairs was now changing : the militia were discharg 



-^ l 



LIFE OF GENEPvAL JACKSON. 317 

ed from service ; bustle was subsiding ; arid joy 
and tranquillity every where appearing. A procla- 
mation, by the direction of the president of the 
United States, was issued, extending pardon and 
forgiveness for past offences. 

Judge Hall, being restored to the exercise of 
those functions, of which he had been lately be- 
reaved by military arrest, proceeded, without loss 
of time, to an examination of what had passed, and 
to become the arbiter of his own injuries. Accord- 
ingly, on the 21st, he granted a rule of court for 
General Jackson to appear, and show cause why an 
attachment for contempt should not be awarded, on 
the ground that he had refused to obey a writ issu- 
ed to him, detained an original paper belonging to 
the court, and imprisoned the judge. 

On the 24th, his appearance being entered, he 
stood represented at the bar by John Reid, his aid- 
de-camp, and Messrs. Livingston and Duncan. Ma- 
jor Reid, addressing himself to the court, remarked, 
tli3t he appeared with the general's answer, supported 
by an affidavit, which went to show, that the rule 
should be discharged, and no further proceeding had 
against him. A curious course of judicial proceed- 
ing was now witnessed. Cause why the rule should 
not be made absolute was to be shown, and yet the 
judge would determine whether the reasons were 
exceptionable or not, previously to their being heard 
or seen. The counsel urged in vain the propriety 
of his hearing first, before he decided, if the an- 
swer were consonant with propriety. This was 
over-ruled. He would first determine what it should 
be. If within any of the rules laid down, it should 
be heard. — not else. 
27* 



313 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

" If," remarked the judge, " the party object to 
the jurisdiction, he shall be heard. 

" If it be a denial of facts, or that the facts charg- 
ed do not amount to a contempt, he shall be heard. 

" If it be an apology to the court, or an inten- 
tion to show, that by the constitution and laws of 
the United States, or in virtue of his military com- 
mission, he had a right to act as charged, the court 
will hear him." 

" Hear what it does contain, and you can then 
decide if it come under any of the general rules 
laid down," was replied and argued at length by 
his counsel, as the correct and proper course. 

After a debate of considerable length, Major 
Reid was permitted to read the answer. He had 
gotten through the exceptions reserved as to the 
jurisdiction, and was proceeding with the respond- 
ent's reasons, manifesting the necessity, and the 
consequent propriety, of declaring martial law, when 
he was again interrupted by the judge, because 
coming within none of the rules which he had laid 
down. The ears of the court were closed against 
every thing of argument or reason, and, without 
hearing the defence, the rule against him was ren- 
dered absolute, and the attachment sued out. 

This process was made returnable the 31st; and 
on that day the general appeared. Public feeling 
was excited, and the crowd, on the tiptoe of expecta- 
tion, were anxiously waiting to know what punish- 
ment the judge would think due to acts, which all 
agreed had contributed to the success of our cause. 
Jackson, apprized of the popular fervour towards 
him, and solicitous that nothing on his part should 
be done calculated to give it impulse, practised 
more than usual caution ; and now, when it had bo- 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 



319 



come necessary to appear in public, to ward himself 
from crimes imputed/<le threw off his military cos- 
tume, and, assuming the garb of a citizen, the bet- 
ter to disguise himself, entered alone the hall where 
the court was sitting. Undiscovered amidst the 
concourse which was present, lie had nearly reach- 
ed the bar, when, being perceived, the room in- 
stantlv run a- with the shouts of a thousand voices. 
Raising himself on a bench, and moving his hand 
to procure silence, a pause ensued. He then ad- 
dressed himself to the crowd ; told them of the duty 
due to the public authorities ; for that any impro- 
priety of theirs would be imputed to him ; and urged, 
if they had any regard for him, that they would, on 
the present occasion, forbear those expressions of 
opinion. Silence being restored, the judge rose 
from his seat, and, remarking that it was impossible 
to transact business under such threatening circum- 
stances, directed the marshal to adjourn the court. 
The general immediately interfered, and requested 
that it might not be done. " There is no danger 
here ; there shall be none ; the same arm, that pro- 
tected from outrage this city, will shield and pro- 
tect this court, or perish in the effort." This dec 
laration had the effect to tranquillize the feelings of 
the judge ; and the business of the court was pro- 
ceeded with. It was now demanded of him to an- 
swer nineteen interrogatories, drawn up with much 
labour, and in studied form, which were to deter- 
mine as to his guilt or innocence. He informed the 
court he should not be interrogated ; that, on a 
former occasion, he had presented the reasons 
which had influenced his conduct, without their 
producing an effect, or being even listened to. 
" You would not hear my defence, although you 



320 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

were advised it contained nothing improper, and 
ample reasons why no attachment should be award- 
ed. Under these circumstances, I appear before 
you, to receive the sentence of the court, having 
nothing further in my defence to offer. 

" Your honour will not understand me as intend- 
ing any disrespect to the court ; but as no opp rtu- 
nity lias been afforded me of explaining the rea- 
sons and motives by which I was influenced, so ig 
it expected, that censure or reproof will constitute 
no part of that sentence which you may imagine it 
your duty to pronounce." 

The judge proceeded to a final discharge of what 
he conceived was due to the offended majesty of 
the laws, and fined the general a thousand dollars. 

The hall in which this business was transacted 
was greatly crowded, and excitement every where 
prevailed. No sooner was the judgment of the 
court pronounced, than again were sent forth shouts 
of the people. He was forcibly hurried from the 
hall to the streets, amidst reiterated cries of " Huzza 
for Jackson !" from the immense concourse that sur- 
rounded him. They presently met a carriage in 
which a lady was riding, when, politely taking her 
from it, the general was made, spite of entreaty, to 
occupy her place : the horses being removed, the 
carriage was drawn on, and halted at the coffee- 
house, into which he was carried, and thither the 
crowd followed, huzzaing for Jackson, and menac- 
ing violently the judge. Having prevailed on them 
to hear him, he addressed them with great earnest- 
ness ; implored them to run into no excesses ; that, 
if they had the least gratitude for his services, or 
regard for him personally they could evince it in 
no way so satisfactorily, as y assenting as he most 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 321 

freely did, to the decision which had been pro- 
nounced against him ; " that the civil was the para- 
mount and supreme authority of the land. He had 
never pretended to any thing else, nor advocated a 
different doctrine. He had departed from its rules, 
because that they were too feeble for the state of 
the times. By a resort to martial law, he had suc- 
ceeded in defending and protecting a country, which, 
without it, must have been lost ; yet under its provi- 
sions he had oppressed no one, nor extended them to 
any other purpose than defence and safety ; objects 
which its declaration was intended alone to effect." 
''I feel," continued he, "sensible for those marks 
of personal regard, which you have evinced towards 
me ; and with pleasure remember those high efforts 
of valour and patriotism, which so essentially con- 
tributed to the defence of the country. If recent 
events have shown you what fearless valour can ef- 
fect, it is a no less important truth to learn, that 
submission to the civil authority is the first duty of 
a citizen." 

Being at length relieved from this warm display 
of regard manifested towards him for the exertions 
he had made in their defence, Jackson retired to 
his quarters, and, giving a check to his aid-de-camp, 
sent him to discharge the fine imposed, and to ter- 
minate his contest with the civil authority. He was 
greatly consoled at learning, through various re- 
spectable channels, that all was tranquil, and that 
against the judge nothing of indignity or unkind 
riess was longer meditated. 

So riveted was the impression, that the course 
pursued by the general was correct, and the con- 
duct of Judge Hall more the result of spleen than 
any thing else, that the citizens of New Orleans 



322 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 

determined to ward off the effect of his intended 
injury, by discharging themselves the fine imposed. 
It was only necessary to he thought of, and it was 
done. So numerous were the persons entertain- 
ing the same feelings on the subject, that in a short 
time the entire sum was raised by voluntary con- 
tribution. The general, understanding what was in 
agitation, to spare his own and their feelings, had 
despatched his aid-de-camp to seek the marshal, 
and thereby avoided the necessity of refusing a 
favour intended to be offered, and which he could 
not have accepted. Without, however, any knowl- 
edge of his wishes, or consulting at all his feelings 
on the subject, they proceeded in the arrangement, 
and, by subscription, the entire amount was in a 
short time raised, and deposited to his use in the bank, 
and notice thereof given. But it was not accept- 
ed ; though refused in a manner the most delicate. 
In reply, he declared the obligations felt for this re- 
newed evidence of regard ; and, although he could 
not accept of it, yet, as it was the result of the most 
generous feeling, he solicited that the amount might 
be applied to the relief of those whose relatives 
had fallen in battle. The proposition was acceded 
to, and the amount subscribed expressly for his re 
lief was disposed of for the benefit of the widow 
and the fatherless. 

Jackson once, concerning the declaration of mar- 
tial law, expressed himself after the following man- 
ner : " I very well knew the extent of my powers, 
and that it was far short of that which necessity 
and my situation required. I determined, therefore, 
to venture boldly forth, and pursue a course corre- 
spondent to the difficulties that pressed upon me. 
T had an anxious solicitude to wipe off the stiyuui 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON 323 

;ast upon my country by the destruction of the cap- 
ital. If New Orleans were taken, I well knew that 
new difficulties would arise, and every effort be made 
to retain it ; and that, if regained, blood and treas 
dre would be the sacrifice. My determination, 
therefore, was formed, not to halt at trifles, but to 
lose the city only at the boldest sacrifice, and to 
omit nothing that could assure success. I was well 
aware that calculating politicians, ignorant of the 
difficulties that surrounded me, would condemn my 
course ; but this was not material. What became 
of me was of no consequence. If disaster did 
come, I expected not to survive it ; but, if a successful 
defence could be made, I felt assured that my coun- 
try, in the objects attained, would lose sight of, and 
forget the means that had been employed." 

The war being now ended, it was necessary to 
relieve from the toils of the field those brave men, 
who had so long been struggling in their country's 
defence. The necessary measures to effect this 
were adopted. The Tennessee, Kentucky, and 
Mississippi troops had taken their departure. Gen- 
eral Gaines being invested with the command, in a 
few days General Jackson left New Orleans for 
Nashville. The good wishes and friendship of the 
people followed him : there were a few, however, 
who rejoiced at his departure ; but thev v?re those 
who, in moments of peril, had stood aloof from 
danger, or sought to increase it, and who, in the re- 
proaches to be cast upon him, expected to palliate 
their own misdeeds. Previously to breaking up 
his encampment, he addressed his army, and de- 
clared the high sense he entertained of those valiant 
men, who, with him, had toiled in the field, and, by 
perseverance and fidelity, had obtained safety 



321 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

for their country, and distinguished honour for them- 
selves. 

On his return, the respect of all was manifested 
in his behalf: all evinced a partiality for the man, 
whose signal achievements had raised his country 
to a hio-h and dignified standing, and whose unre- 
mitting exertions had closed the war with a lustre 
that enlightened even the blots of its commencement. 

The annunciation of the triumphant defence of 
New Orleans was, in every section of the country, 
hai'cd with acclamation ; illuminations and fetes 
followed it into all our cities and principal towns ; 
and in all was it agreed, that none other than the 
decided course adopted by Jackson could have at- 
tained so auspicious a result. The legislatures of 
many of the states voted to him their thanks for 
what he had done. The congress of the United 
States did the same, and directed a gold medal to be 
presented to him, commemorative of the event. Ad- 
dresses from numerous societies and meetings of the 
people were forwarded, expressive of their great 
regard, and proclaiming him the deliverer and sec- 
ond saviour of his country. 

A tedious journey of eight hundred miles brought 
him to Nashville, where he was gratified with a mani 
festation of the regard of his fellow townsmen. An 
immense concourse was collected, to welcome his 
arrival. They had long known him as among the 
number of their best and most respectable citizens ; 
but curiosity had a new incentive : until now, they 
had not beheld him as one, who, to protect his coun- 
try, know no difficulty too great to be encountered — 
who, by his firmness and unconquerable perseve- 
rance, amidst surrounding dangers, had saved her 
from foreign and intestine foes. An address, deliv 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 325 

ered at the court-room, in behalf of the citizens, 
welcomed his return. Relieved from this further 
display of public confidence, the more grateful, be- 
cause from those who were his acquaintances, neigh- 
bours, and friends, he retired home, to repair a bro- 
ken constitution, and to enjoy that repose, to which, 
for eighteen months, he had been a stranger. 

Early in the congressional session of 1820, sev- 
eral propositions were made for the reduction of 
the army, which, however, were not decided upon. 
On the 9th of January, 1821, the subject was again 
revived ; and on the 5th of March, following, by 
an act of congress, approved by the president, the 
reduction was effected. By this law, only one ma- 
jor-general was retained, and, as General Jackson 
was not the senior commissioned general, his com- 
mission was annulled, and, by courtesy, his senior 
was retained. All commissioned officers were al- 
lowed three months' pay, after their commissions 
were returned. Previous to this, as early as the 
preceding January, the news of the ratification of 
the Florida treaty, by the Spanish cortes, had been 
received. On the 3d of January, Mr. Stanbury, 
the diplomatic agent, arrived at Philadelphia, in the 
Pleiades, with an authenticated copy of the treaty for 
the re-ratification of the senate, which had become 
necessary, as the time allowed to Spain to signify 
her acceptance of the instrument had expired be- 
fore this acceptance was declared. The senate, on 
the 9th of February, 1821, considered the subject, 
and gave their sanction anew to the instrument, which 
was finally confirmed on the 22d. By this advan- 
tageous treaty, East and West Florida were ceded 
to the United States, and provision made for indem- 
nifying American citizens for Spanish spoliations, 
28 



526 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

by paying five millions of dollars, the amount agreed 
upon as the purchase money, directly to the claim- 

ants. 

On the 1st of March, 1821, a bill passed, autho- 
rizing the president to take possession of the newly- 
acquired territory. Three days after this, March 5th, 
Mr. Monroe was sworn to his second term of office, 
and one of the earliest and most important du- 
ties that devolved upon him was the appointment of 
a person suitably qualified to take possession of the 
Floridas. Various conjectures were abroad, in re- 
lation to the individual upon whom this honour 
would be conferred. Mr. Monroe very judiciously 
fixed his eye on the man whose patriotic exertions 
had been so instrumental in bringing the war in 
that very region to a successful termination. On 
the 15th of March, therefore, General Jackson's 
appointment, as governor of the Floridas, with a 
salary of five thousand dollars a year, was official- 
ly announced. 

Soon after being notified of his appointment, he 
commenced his journey towards his place of desti- 
nation. 

On the 23d of April, he left New Orleans for 
Pensacola, having received the greatest attention 
from the municipal authorities in the very theatre of 
his former warlike exploits. The hospitality of 
individuals, and the general expression of the peo- 
ple of New Orleans, were calculated to call forth 
the liveliest feelings of gratitude. 

There was considerable delay, on the part of the 
Spanish authorities, in delivering up the territories. 
This resulted from their prejudices against the 
United States, and their disapprobation of the trea- 
ty requiring the .transfer. 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 327 

On the 7th of July, 1821, Governor Croppinger, 
by proclamation, formally delivered East Florida to 
Colonel Robert Butler, the properly authorized com- 
missioner. General Jackson, though not present, 
was in the vicinity, making the necessary arrange- 
ments for the government of both. Ten days af- 
ter this, July 17th, West Florida was delivered to 
Governor Jackson in due form. Thus the whole of 
the newly-acquired territory was placed under his 
control as governor-general. When the proper 
course had been adopted for the happiness of all class- 
es, he issued a proclamation of a paternal character, 
defining the policy of the government, and pointing 
out the duties of the people in their new relation. 

After the satisfactory termination of the great 
business of receiving the Floridas, he made an ex- 
cursion to New Orleans, and. on the 11th of Au- 
gust, delivered a valedictory address to the re- 
mainder of the conquering army, then on the point 
of being disbanded. In this speech, which breath- 
ed the sentiments of affectionate regard towards 
those brave men, who had aided him in the accom- 
plishment of so many perilous undertakings, for 
the glory and honour of their country, he made 
known that his career, as commander in chief of 
the southern division of the American army, was 
then terminated. Again we find him, at the close 
of August, at St. Augustine. On the 1st day of 
September, Governor Jackson promulgated the 
names of those whom he had appointed for the civil 
government of East Florida. There was much 
contention, about this time, relative to the Spanish 
archives, which resulted in some unpleasant personal 
feelings between the governor and Judge Fromentin. 
Urgent measures, on the part of Governor Jackson, 



32S LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

*-ere highly necessary, and hence he issued a proc 
lamation, which obliged the Spanish officers to leave 
the territories at a specified period. Against this 
Governor Croppinger, together with the offended 
officers, made a remonstrance. Croppinger, partic- 
ularly, protested against the seizure of the public 
papers, &c. The details of this occurrence our 
limits will not permit us to narrate. It is certain, 
however, that there were intriguers in the territo- 
ries, and various misrepresentations, touching the 
administration of the newly-formed government, 
which, probably, induced Governor Jackson to re- 
sign a power, which could not contribute to his 
own happiness, or increase his sphere of useful- 
ness. 

On the 8th of September, Governor Jackson, 
then at Pensacola, made known his intention of vis- 
iting Tennessee with his family. This was no 
sooner understood, than he was invited to a pub- 
lic dinner by the inhabitants. On that occasion, 
every demonstration of respect was shown to the 
distinguished and successful warrior. To the sur- 
prise and regret of an increasing circle of friends, 
who knew how to appreciate his talents, he made a 
farewell address to the people of the Floridas. In 
the course of his speech, he remarked that lie 
should not return again, unless some unexpected 
event should render it necessary. 

Soon after the meeting- of the seventeenth con- 
gress, on the 29th of the following December,Gover- 
nor Jackson, having discharged with fidelity and suc- 
cess the duties of his appointment, tendered to the 
president his resignation. 

Scarcely thirty days had elapsed from the time of 
Ins resignation of the government of the Floridas, 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 329 

before he was honoured by Mr. Monroe with an- 
other appointment of higher political consequence. 
January 23d, 1823, General Jackson was appointed 
envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary to 
the government of Mexico. As an evidence that 
he had no knowledge of the intentions of the ex- 
ecutive, we find, on the 1st of the following March, 
in a respectful manner, he declined the offered 
mission. It has been generally understood that 
this was in consequence of the unsettled and dis- 
tracted state of Mexico, then under the control of 
Iturbide, who had declared himself emperor. The 
true motive, however, for declining the proffered 
honour, is to be found in the general's own words : 
" From the present revolutionary state of Mexico, 
the appearance of an American envoy, with cre- 
dentials to the tyrant Iturbide, might add to his 
strength, and thereby aid him in riveting the chains 
of despotism upon that country, which of right 
ought to be free. To be the instrument of tyranny, 
however innocent on my part, I could not recon- 
cile to my feelings. With these views, and other rea- 
sons, which I have communicated to Mr. Monroe, I 
have declined accepting the mission to Mexico." 
But a short time after, May 13th, the Mexican em- 
peror abdicated his throne, and made the best of 
his way from a country, which he had brought to 
the verge of ruin. 

General Jackson now retired to the quietude of 
private lite, and, in the circle of his own family, 
Bought that rest from the fatigues and countless 
anxieties of a military life, which his exhausted 
frame and spirits so obviously required. The con- 
fidence, however, which the citizens of Tennessee 
iiad in his talents and wisdom, was again manifest- 
2S* 



830 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON". 

cd in electing him a senator to the eighteenth con • 
gress, which assembled in December, 1823; and 
once more he resigned the endearments of home to 
mingle in the councils of the nation. On his route 
from Nashville to Washington, he was greeted by 
the most enthusiastic applause. The citizens of 
Knoxville, in a special manner, honoured their cel- 
ebrated guest with a public dinner, and exhibited, 
in the strongest language, and in the most unequiv- 
ocal hospitality ,that they considered him a man of ex- 
traordinary talents, whose past services entitled him 
to the admiration and confidence of his country. 

During the session of congress, he entered with 
spirited interest into the general business of the 
nation, and was frequently on some of the most im- 
portant committees. As indefatigable in the sen- 
ate as in military command, he found that such un- 
remitted attention to public affairs, as his duty re- 
quired, to sustain the dignity of the station, was al- 
together too severe for the delicate state of his 
health. The political horizon, also, now began to 
present a different aspect, and the circumstance of 
his being a candidate for the presidential chair, 
without doubt, influenced him, to a considerable ex- 
tent, in resigning his seat in the senate. Soon af- 
ter the close' of the session, he made known to his 
constituents the determination, and, in a few weeks, 
it was announced, to the sincere regret of all who 
knew the integrity of his character. 

In the person of General Jackson is perceived 
nothing of the robust or elegant. He is six feet 
and an inch high, remarkably straight and spare, 
and weighs not more than a hundred and fortv-five 
pounds. His conformation appears to disqualify 
Kim for hardship : yet, accustomed to it from early 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 331 

life, few are capable of enduring fatigue to the 
same extent, or with less injury. His dark blue 
eyes, with brows arched and slightly projecting, 
possess a marked expression ; but when, from any 
cause, excited, they sparkle with peculiar lustre and 
penetration. In his manners he is pleasing — in his 
address commanding ; while his countenance, mark- 
ed with firmness and decision, beams with a strength 
and intelligence that strikes at first sight. In his 
deportment there is nothing repulsive. Easy, af- 
fable, and familiar, he is accessible to all. Influ- 
enced by the belief, that merit should constitute the 
only difference in men, his attention is equally be- 
stowed on honest poverty as on titled consequence. 
No man, however inconsiderable his standing, ever 
approached him on business, that he did not patient- 
ly listen to his story, and afford him all the informa- 
tion in his power. His moral character is without 
reproach, and by those who know him most inti- 
mately he is most esteemed. Benevolence in him 
is a prominent virtue. He was never known to pass 
distress without seeking to assist and to relieve it. 
It. is imputed to him, that he derives from his 
birth a temper irritable and hasty, which has had 
the effect to create enemies, and involve him in dis- 
putes. In Jackson, however, these defects of char- 
acter exist to an extent as limited as with most 
men ; and the world is in error in presuming him un- 
der a too high control of feeling and passion. A fix- 
ed devotion to those principles which honour sanc- 
tions, renders him scrupulously attentive to his 
promises and engagements of every description. 
Preserving system in his moneyed transactions, his 
fiscal arrangements are made to correspond with 
his resources, and hence his every engagement in 



332 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

relation to such subjects is met with marked punc- 
tuality, not for the reason that he is a man of ex- 
traordinary wealth, but rather because he has meth- 
od, and with a view to his resources, regulates 
properly his balance of trade. 

No man has been more misconceived in charac 
ter. Many, on becoming' acquainted with him, have 
been heard to admit the previous opinions which 
they had entertained, and how great had been their 
mistake. Rough in appearance, positive and over- 
bearing in his manner, aie what all, upon a first in- 
troduction, expect to find ; and yet none are pos 
sessed of milder manners, or of more conciliating 
address. The public situations in which he has 
been placed, and the circumstances which surround- 
ed him, are doubtless the cause that those opinions 
have become so prevalent ; but they are opinions 
which an acquaintance with him tends to remove. 
The difficulties under which he laboured at New Or- 
leans were such as might well have perplexed, and 
thrown the mind aside from every thing of mildness. 

Light and trif.mg pleasantries often mark char- 
acter as distinctly as things of consequence. Gen- 
oral Jackson, one day during the siege of New Or- 
leans, was approached by an officer of the militia, 
who stated his desire to leave the service, and re- 
turn home ; for that he was made game of, and 
called by the company Pewter Foot. He manifest- 
ed great concern, and an anxious desire to be re- 
lieved from his unpleasant situation. The general, 
with much apparent sympathy for him, replied, that 
he had ascertained there was a practice in the camp 
of giving nick-names ; and had understood, too, 
that very many had dared to call him Old Hickory} : 
" Now," said he, "if you prefer mine, I am willing 



LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 333 

to exchange ; if not, remain contented, and perform 
your duty faithfully, and, as soon as we can get clear 
of those troublesome British, our wrongs shall be 
inquired into by a court-martial, and the authors 
punished ; for then, and not till then, shall we have 
an end of those insults," The effect was happy, 
and induced the complaining officer to retire, per- 
fectly satisfied to learn, that his grievance would 
be united with the general's, and both ere long be 
effectually redressed. 

General Jackson possesses ambition, but it rests 
on virtue ; an ambition, which, regulated by a high 
sense of honourable feeling, leads him to desire 
" that applause which follows good actions — not 
that which is run after." No man is more ready to 
hear and to respect the opinions of others, and none, 
where much is at stake, and at conflict with his 
own, less disposed to be under their influence. 
He has never been known to call a council of war, 
whose decisions, when made, were to shield him 
from responsibility or censure. His council of war, 
if doubting himself, was a few officers, in whom he 
fully confided, whose advice was regarded, if their 
reasons were conclusive ; but, these not being satis- 
factory, he at once adopted and pursued the course 
suggested by his own mind. 

At the battle of Tohopeka, an infant was found 
pressed to the bosom of its lifeless mother. This 
circumstance being made known to General Jack- 
son, he became interested for the child, directed it 
to be brought to him, and sought to prevail on some 
of the Indian women to take care of and rear it. 
They signified their unwillingness to do so, stating 
that, inasmuch as all its relations had fallen in bat- 
tle, they thought it best it should be killed. The 



334 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 

general, after this disclosure, determined he would 
not intrust it with them, but became himself the 
protector of the child. Bestowing on the infant 
the name of Lincoier, he adopted it into his family, 
and has ever since manifested the liveliest zeal to- 
wards it, prompted by benevolence, and because, 
perhaps, its fate bore a strong resemblance to his 
own, who, in early life, and from the ravages of 
war, was left in the world forlorn and wretched, 
without friends to assist, or near relations to direct 
him on his course. 

Thus we have traced the private and public life of 
the man, who is rightly denominated the Hero of 
Wew Orleans. 

General Jackson continues to reside on his es- 
tate in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by an agree- 
able circle of intellectual friends, in the possession 
of no office, but in the enjoyment of the richest bless- 
ings of Divine Providence, — a moderate fortune, 
sound health, and a good conscience. 

The author has not adverted to the many popu- 
lar efforts in the United States to raise General 
Jackson to the first office in the nation, nor related 
the flattering reception of the conqueror, on the 8th 
of January, 1828, on the battle-ground of New Or- 
leans, the scene of those great achievements, which 
furnish a brilliant page to the history of his country. 
Time will develope his future destiny, — whether he 
vvill yet be the chief magistrate of a great repub- 
lic, or whether his name will go down to posteri- 
ty, simply as one of the most distinguished warrior* 
and disinterested patriots of the age. 



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